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The association between narcolepsy and REM behavior disorder (RBD).
S Nightingale1, J C Orgill, I O Ebrahim
1Sleep Disorders Centre, St. Thomas Hospital, London, UK. sam_nightingale@hotmail.com
Sleep Medicine
|April 28, 2005
Summary
This study found a significant association between narcolepsy and Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD). Narcolepsy patients, especially those with cataplexy, showed higher RBD prevalence, suggesting a need for screening.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Movement Disorders
Background:
- Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is characterized by loss of muscle atonia during REM sleep, leading to dream enactment.
- RBD is often idiopathic or secondary to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between RBD and narcolepsy.
- To determine the prevalence of RBD symptoms in a narcolepsy patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 78 randomly selected narcolepsy patients.
- Positive responders underwent telephone interviews, and limited polysomnography (PSG) data was analyzed.
Main Results:
- 36% of the 55 respondents (71% response rate) reported RBD symptoms.
- RBD was equally prevalent in males and females, with a mean age of onset of 41 years.
- 68% of narcolepsy patients with cataplexy and associated symptoms had RBD, versus 14% without these symptoms.
Conclusions:
- The study indicates a stronger link between narcolepsy and RBD than previously reported.
- Narcolepsy patients, particularly those with cataplexy, should be screened for RBD.
- Individuals with RBD, especially younger females, should be evaluated for narcolepsy.