[Gifted children and the family physician].

Gifted children account for about 2% of the population but are not always identified. Nonsynchronous intellectual, biological and affective development may cause problems and disrupt relationships at home and in school. GP's are consulted for mood or behavior disorders or somatization. If maladjustment at school appears to be related to mood or behavior disorders, a complete psychological assessment is essential. It is especially important to rule out the differential diagnosis of ADHD because of the differences in treatment. A substantial portion of management depends on teachers and the overall school environment. GP's are involved in long-term support of children and families, and in treatment of related disorders: depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and somatization. Drug therapy has a very limited role in treatment of related disorders.