What Does PET Imaging Reveal in ADHD Studies?

PostedOctober 6, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD PET imaging offers valuable insight into how the brain’s metabolism and neurotransmitters behave in people with ADHD. PET scans have revealed metabolism changes in key brain regions, particularly the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, which are involved in attention, decision‑making, and reward processing. These findings suggest that ADHD is associated with altered brain activity rather than structural damage alone.

Several PET studies show reduced glucose metabolism in the prefrontal cortex during rest and attention tasks in adults with ADHD. Moreover, PET imaging has repeatedly implicated neurotransmitter dysfunction, especially in the dopamine system, and sometimes in serotonin or norepinephrine pathways. Although results are promising, they are not perfectly consistent: different studies find varying degrees of alteration depending on age, ADHD subtype, or medication status.

Common Symptoms Reflected in PET Findings

Here are key ADHD symptoms that seem to map to what PET scans reveal, and how treatments may help:

Inattention and Poor Task Focus

Lower metabolism in the prefrontal cortex often correlates with difficulties sustaining attention and following through on tasks. Medication, particularly stimulants, can increase metabolic rates in this region. CBT can help by teaching approaches to improve organisation, sustained focus, and goal‑setting.

Impulsivity and Reward Processing Issues

Altered neurotransmitter function, especially with dopamine in the basal ganglia, can be linked to impulsivity, procrastination, or poor response to delayed rewards. Medication targets these systems to improve regulation, and behavioural therapy helps individuals develop coping strategies and better decision‑making skills.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations tailored to your ADHD care and support needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD PET imaging.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.