Comparison of WİSC-R subtests and psychiatric profiles with sluggish cognitive tempo and specific learning disorder comorbidity in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

The present study aims to evaluate the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-R) subtest profiles between patients with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder with symptoms of Sluggish Cognitive Tempo and those with Specific Learning Disorder, to help reveal the neurocognitive profile specific to SCT, and to compare the psychiatric characteristics of the patients. Cases were identified by retrospectively scanning patient files and hospital information system records. Teacher Information Form (TRF) evaluations were examined to reveal the symptoms of Sluggish Cognitive Tempo. WISC-R test results were analyzed by obtaining patient files and hospital computer records. 844 children and adolescents were included in the study. Four case groups were formed as: ADHD without SLD symptoms (n=348), ADHD with SCT symptoms (ADHD+SCT, n=116) with comorbid SLD (ADHD+SLD, n=252) with SCT symptoms in addition to SLD diagnosis (ADHD+SCT+SLD), n=128). The WISC-R verbal IQ score was found to be higher in the ADHD group than in the other groups. ADHD+SCT was found to be significantly lower than ADHD only in the information subtest. There was no significant difference in performance subtests. In addition, inattention, depression, and anxiety scores in TRF psychiatric profiles were found to be higher in groups accompanied by SCT than in other groups. In our study, the SLD group was more impaired in neurocognitive areas such as verbal conceptual skills and the ability to acquire information, and it was accompanied by less in the SCT group. In addition, it was concluded that internalizing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and inattention were more associated with SCT.