[Indications for sleep laboratory studies in psychiatrically symptomatic children and adolescents]

Many mental and behavioural disorders during childhood and adolescence are associated with sleep difficulties. A polysomnography is seldom needed but indicated in following cases: In a general view when there is suspected obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), excessive daytime sleepiness or suspected nocturnal seizures. Specific mental disorders with indication of polysomnography are: Diagnostic unclear and dangerous parasomnias, emotional disorders in case of differing sleep perception, Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Tourette Syndrome with suspected (additional) OSAS, Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) or Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD). Further indications are -therapy-resistant insomnia and sleep-wake-rhythm-disorders.