Is ADHD underdiagnosed in girls due to different biomarker profiles? 

Yes, ADHD female biomarker profiles play a significant role in the underdiagnosis of ADHD in girls. ADHD is often diagnosed more frequently in boys, largely due to differences in how the disorder presents in males and females. Girls typically exhibit more subtle symptoms, such as inattention and internalising behaviours like anxiety or low self-esteem, rather than the more obvious hyperactivity and impulsivity seen in boys. These differing clinical presentations and biomarker profiles can lead to diagnostic bias, making it harder to identify ADHD in girls. 

How ADHD presents differently in girls 

ADHD often presents differently in girls through inattentiveness, daydreaming, and emotional sensitivity rather than hyperactivity, leading to underdiagnosis and delayed support. 

Subtle symptoms and internalising behaviours  

Girls with ADHD often show fewer of the hyperactive and impulsive behaviours typically associated with the disorder. Instead, they may struggle with inattention, daydreaming, and difficulty focusing, often leading to their symptoms being overlooked or misattributed to other issues, such as anxiety or depression. These female biomarker profiles can make ADHD harder to diagnose in girls, as they do not always fit the typical ADHD diagnostic criteria, which often emphasise externalising behaviours. 

Genetic markers and brain structure differences  

Studies show that genetic markers and brain structure in girls with ADHD may also differ from those in boys. Girls with ADHD may have different dopamine receptor variants or variations in the cortex that affect how they manage attention and emotional regulation. These differences in biomarkers may contribute to the more subtle or less overt expression of ADHD in females, further complicating diagnosis. 

Why diagnostic bias affects ADHD in girls 

Diagnostic bias affects ADHD in girls because their symptoms are often less disruptive and more internalised, causing healthcare providers and teachers to overlook or misinterpret them. 

Gender-based diagnostic bias 

 The common assumption that ADHD is primarily a disorder of hyperactivity and impulsivity leads to a diagnostic bias towards boys, who typically present with these symptoms. Girls, who may show more inattention or emotional dysregulation, often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with conditions like depression or anxiety, rather than being properly assessed for ADHD. 

The role of biomarkers in diagnosis  

Identifying ADHD female biomarker profiles that differ from those seen in males can help correct this bias. Understanding that girls with ADHD might have unique genetic markers or brain differences could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses, improving treatment outcomes. 

Why this matters for treatment 

This matters for treatment because recognising gender-specific symptoms ensures girls receive timely diagnosis and tailored interventions that address their unique needs. 

Improved diagnosis and earlier intervention  

Recognising the unique biomarker profiles in girls can help clinicians better diagnose ADHD in females, leading to earlier intervention and more effective treatment strategies. Tailoring the diagnostic approach to account for gender differences in symptom presentation and biomarker expression is key to better addressing the needs of girls with ADHD. 

Personalised treatment plans  

By understanding how genetic markers and brain structures differ between boys and girls, treatments can be more personalised. For example, therapies might be adjusted based on the specific biomarkers present in each gender, improving treatment effectiveness and helping to manage ADHD symptoms more effectively in girls. 

ADHD female biomarker profiles are crucial in understanding why ADHD is often underdiagnosed in girls. By recognising the gender differences in both clinical presentation and genetic markers, we can improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for females with ADHD. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations that explore female ADHD biomarker profiles.

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