Narcolepsy in the custodial setting

A case of a detained person who suffered from narcolepsy is presented. The management of the condition in general and with particular reference to the custodial setting is discussed. The management of obstructive sleep apnoea, the commonest sleep disorder, is contrasted. Forensic physicians are often confronted with rare or unusual medical problems in the custodial setting, often having to make immediate medical decisions without access to specialist medical advice. Twenty-four hour access to Internet medical resources in the custodial setting may be helpful.