Is there a genetic disorder that runs in male genes that can be mistaken for adhd? my 4 yr. son is very hyper, cries alot, and abusive toward some children and me. the adhd medicine isn't working. now he has been scratching his face when he gets mad. what

ADHD : Adhd can be difficult to diagnose in a 4 year old. His behavior problems may be caused by something else. It sounds like he needs further evaluation to see how he can be helped. Traits similar to those found in adhd can be seen in some of the autistic spectrum disorders that can be more prevalent in males. His unresponsiveness to some medications can give clues as to what may be causing his difficult behavior as well. It's interesting that you have noted that the aggressive behavior is only in the males and during their childhood. I'm glad the traits went away as these boys grew up. Don't give up, but seek further evaluation and have your pediatrician guide you toward the specialists in your area.

Not exactly: Adhd & autism are "categories"of specific observable behaviors. Genetic errors are the "etiology" or cause of specific patterns of physical, developmental & behavioral abnormalities (syndromes). Errors on moms' x chromosomes only affect or are more severe in family males.Comparative genomic hybridization & dna probe for fragile x are done in kids with developmental delays &/or autistic behaviors.