New Brain Test Aids ADHD Diagnosis

The FDA has approved the first brain function test to help in the diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6 years to 17 years old. 

The test, a 20 minute, noninvasive procedure known as the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) System, uses electroencephalogram technology to determine the ratio of 2 brain wave frequencies: theta and beta waves. Theta/beta ratios are known to be higher in children with ADHD than those without the condition.

Results of the NEBA are meant to supplement results of medical and psychological examinations, either confirming the diagnosis of ADHD or serving as a guide for further testing.

In support of the test, the manufacturers of the NEBA system also submitted a clinical trial in which clinicians evaluated 275 children and adolescents from 6 years to 17 years old with attention concerns. 

Along with the NEBA System, clinicians also employed Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV criteria, behavioral questionnaires, IQ tests, and physical exams in their examination.    

Results were reviewed by an independent group of ADHD experts, and showed that clinicians using the NEBA System in conjunction with clinical assessments were able to make more accurate ADHD diagnosis than those using clinical assessment results alone.

“Diagnosing ADHD is a multistep process based on a complete medical and psychiatric exam,” said Christy Foreman, director of the Office of Device Evaluation at the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “The NEBA System along with other clinical information may help health care providers more accurately determine if ADHD is the cause of a behavioral problem.” 

–Michael Potts

Reference

FDA permits marketing of first brain wave test to help assess children and teens for ADHD [press release]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. July 15, 2013.