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Restless legs syndrome and polyneuropathy
Franco Gemignani1, Francesca Brindani, Anna Negrotti
1Department of Neurosciences, Section of Neurology, University of Parma, Parma, Italy. gemignan@unipr.it
Summary
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is common in patients with polyneuropathy, particularly women with mild, sensory-type acquired neuropathies. This study highlights the frequent co-occurrence of RLS in this patient group.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an urge to move the limbs.
- Polyneuropathy is a common condition affecting peripheral nerves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) in patients diagnosed with polyneuropathy.
- To identify characteristics of polyneuropathy associated with RLS.
Main Methods:
- The study included 97 consecutive patients diagnosed with polyneuropathy according to established criteria.
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) was diagnosed using the International RLS Study Group criteria.
- Patient data, including neuropathy type, severity, and demographic information, were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) was diagnosed in 29 out of 97 patients (approximately 30%) with polyneuropathy.
- RLS was more prevalent in women and associated with sensory neuropathy of the small fiber type.
- Acquired neuropathies, especially dysimmune neuropathies, were significantly more frequent in RLS patients.
- Sensory action potential changes were less severe in patients with RLS.
Conclusions:
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is frequently observed in patients with acquired polyneuropathy, particularly those with mild sensory-type neuropathy.
- The findings suggest a significant association between RLS and specific types of acquired polyneuropathy, predominantly in women.