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What Is Comorbidity and Why Does It Matter in Neurodevelopmental Disorders?

  • Comorbidities (DM Dewey, Section Editor)
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Current Developmental Disorders Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of the Review

To provide an overview of the concept of comorbidity, research that supports the common co-occurrence of neurodevelopmental disorders and directions for future research.

Recent Findings

Neurodevelopmental disorders including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, developmental coordination disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and learning disorders co-occur more commonly than would be expected by chance. The potential causes for this comorbidity suggested in the research literature are genetic, epigenetic, neurobiological, and environmental.

Summary

Directions for research such as imaging genetics and epidemiological studies examining prenatal environmental exposures could increase our understanding of the mechanism underlying the high rates of symptom comorbidity among neurodevelopmental disorders. This in turn could lead to improvements in diagnosis, a better understanding of the course of these disorders, and the development of more effective treatments.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2888 Shaganappi Trail N.W, Calgary, AB, T3B 6A8, Canada

    Deborah Dewey

  2. Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada

    Deborah Dewey

  3. Owerko Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, CDC #397, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada

    Deborah Dewey

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Dewey, D. What Is Comorbidity and Why Does It Matter in Neurodevelopmental Disorders?. Curr Dev Disord Rep 5, 235–242 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-018-0152-3

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