Iron Deficiency in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Internalizing and Externalizing Disorders, and Movement Disorders

Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am. 2023 Apr;32(2):451-467. doi: 10.1016/j.chc.2022.08.015.

Abstract

This article reviews the role of iron in brain development and function, with a focus on the association between iron deficiency (ID) and neuropsychiatric conditions. First, we describe how ID is defined and diagnosed. Second, the role of iron in brain development and function is summarized. Third, we review current findings implicating ID in a number of neuropsychiatric conditions in children and adolescents, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other disruptive behavior disorders, depressive and anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, movement disorders, and other situations relevant to mental health providers. Last, we discuss the impact of psychotropic medication on iron homeostasis.

Keywords: ADHD; Anxiety; Brain development; Depression; Iron deficiency.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / diagnosis
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / epidemiology
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / diagnosis
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Comorbidity
  • Humans
  • Iron
  • Iron Deficiencies*
  • Movement Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Movement Disorders* / epidemiology

Substances

  • Iron