Increased prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing in Friedreich ataxia

Neurology. 2013 Jul 2;81(1):46-51. doi: 10.1212/WNL.0b013e318297ef18. Epub 2013 May 22.

Abstract

Objectives: We sought to document the prevalence and nature of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in individuals with Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) as well as establish the relationship, if any, between SDB and clinical parameters of FRDA.

Methods: Eighty-two individuals with FRDA were administered the Epworth Sleepiness Scale on an annual basis for up to 3 years. Individuals were referred for a sleep study if they had an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score >8 or had clinical symptoms suggestive of SDB.

Results: From this cohort, 21 individuals underwent a sleep study and 17 were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, giving a minimum prevalence of 21%, which is greater than that found in the general population (3%-7%). Moreover, the presence of obstructive sleep apnea was significantly correlated with the duration of disease and clinical severity of FRDA.

Conclusion: It is recommended that individuals with FRDA undergo regular screening for obstructive sleep apnea to identify the need for a sleep study and subsequent treatment if SDB is diagnosed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Friedreich Ataxia / complications
  • Friedreich Ataxia / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prevalence
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / epidemiology*
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / etiology
  • Sleep Stages / physiology