Sleep apnea in fragile X syndrome

Seven subjects (age 6 to 21 years) with fragile X [fra(X)] were investigated for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). After a structured interview, 4 of them underwent an overnight polygraphic study. The results indicate an increased risk for OSA among subjects with fra(X) (4/7). In 2 of the subjects polygraphic study indicated a severe OSA syndrome, whereas only mild and moderate severity was evident in the other two. Apnea in all 4 was associated with significant O2 desaturation. Episodes of prolonged expiratory apnea were reported in 2 of the subjects and confirmed by the polygraphic study in one. A continuous positive airway pressure (C-PAP) trial was successful in one of the two patients. It is suggested that subjects with fra(X) are at increased risk for OSA, and physicians should orientate their evaluation with this in mind.