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Is There a Blood Test or Scan for ADHD Diagnosis? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Many people wonder if there are clear-cut ADHD diagnostic tests like a blood test or brain scan to confirm the condition. The reality is that ADHD is diagnosed through behavioural assessments rather than physical or lab-based tests. While research continues into imaging and biomarkers, there are currently no routine medical tests ADHD based that can diagnose the condition. 

Doctors rely on interviews, questionnaires, and observations to determine whether someone meets the criteria for ADHD. These assessments focus on how symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity affect daily life. Though brain scans ADHD related have been studied, they are not used in clinical practice because the differences found are too subtle and inconsistent to rely on for individual diagnosis. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

How It Helps to Know the Limits 

Understanding the current limitations of ADHD diagnostic tests can help you focus on what really matters during assessment. 

No Blood Test Available 

There are no blood markers that can confirm or rule out ADHD, so diagnosis is based on behaviour, not lab results. 

Brain Scans Not Routine 

While some studies show differences in brain activity, brain scans ADHD related are used only in research, not diagnosis. 

Focus on Symptoms 

Doctors assess behaviour patterns and life impact rather than using medical tests ADHD related, which helps ensure an accurate and personalised evaluation. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
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.