How Do Clinicians Interpret ADHD Biomarker Test Results?

PostedOctober 8, 2025

UpdatedOctober 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The ADHD biomarker test interpretation is a crucial process in understanding how genetic, neurobiological, or behavioural markers correlate with ADHD symptoms. These tests, while not yet a standalone diagnostic tool, are increasingly used by clinicians to complement traditional ADHD assessments, providing a deeper insight into a patient’s condition. Interpreting these test results involves considering the patient’s clinical presentation, medical history, and other diagnostic information.

Understanding ADHD Biomarker Tests

This explains how ADHD biomarker tests detect biological indicators linked to the condition, helping to improve diagnosis and personalised care.

Types of biomarker tests

ADHD biomarker tests can include genetic screenings, brain imaging, and measures of neurotransmitter function. These tests often focus on identifying specific genetic markers related to dopamine regulation, such as those in the DAT1 (dopamine transporter) or DRD4 (dopamine receptor) genes. Other biomarkers might involve brain imaging to observe structural changes in areas linked to attention and impulse control, such as the prefrontal cortex and striatum.

Interpreting test results

Clinicians use biomarker test results in conjunction with clinical use of traditional diagnostic methods, such as behavioural questionnaires, neuropsychological assessments, and patient interviews. A positive result for certain genetic or neurobiological markers might indicate an increased genetic risk for ADHD, but it does not confirm a diagnosis on its own. Instead, the results are used to support a diagnosis, inform treatment decisions, and help tailor personalised interventions.

The Role of ADHD Biomarker Tests in Diagnosis

This describes how ADHD biomarker tests assist healthcare professionals in confirming diagnoses by identifying objective biological evidence of the disorder.

Support for clinical diagnostics

ADHD biomarker test interpretation helps clinicians make more informed decisions about treatment options. For example, if a genetic test shows an increased likelihood of dopamine regulation issues, clinicians may opt for stimulant medications that target the dopamine system. However, results are interpreted within the broader context of the patient’s clinical history and symptom profile, ensuring a more accurate diagnosis.

Personalised treatment plans

By incorporating biomarker test results, clinicians can design personalised treatment plans that are more aligned with the patient’s genetic and neurobiological profile, potentially improving treatment outcomes and minimizing side effects.

ADHD biomarker test interpretation is a vital step in refining the diagnostic process and personalising ADHD care. While these tests offer useful insights, they remain only one part of a comprehensive ADHD assessment.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations that help interpret ADHD biomarker test results and guide treatment decisions.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Genetic studies and biomarkers.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

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.