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Updated: Jun 25, 2026

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Published on: December 6, 2016
Cardiovascular complications of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: evidence from children
Rakesh Bhattacharjee1, Leila Kheirandish-Gozal, Giora Pillar
1Kosair Children's Hospital Research Institute, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
Insights
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) in children disrupts sleep and gas exchange. This review details cardiovascular complications in pediatric OSAS, impacting current and future heart health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Cardiovascular Health
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a prevalent pediatric condition.
- It involves upper airway occlusion during sleep, causing gas exchange disturbances and altered sleep patterns.
- Emerging evidence links pediatric OSAS to various end-organ morbidities, particularly cardiovascular issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and present cardiovascular complications associated with pediatric OSAS.
- To discuss the underlying mechanisms contributing to these complications.
- To explore the potential long-term implications for cardiovascular health in affected children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on pediatric OSAS and cardiovascular outcomes.
- Synthesis of findings on specific cardiovascular complications.
- Analysis of proposed pathophysiological mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Pediatric OSAS is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidities.
- These complications can manifest during childhood and persist into adulthood.
- Mechanisms involve intermittent hypoxia, sleep fragmentation, and autonomic dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Cardiovascular complications are a critical concern in pediatric OSAS.
- Early identification and management are crucial for mitigating long-term cardiovascular risks.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the impact and optimize treatment strategies.
Abstract:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a common condition in children, and is characterized by intermittent partial or complete occlusion of the upper airway during sleep, leading to profound disturbances in homeostatic gas exchange, frequent arousals and disturbed sleep architecture. Pediatric OSAS is associated with a multitude of end-organ morbidities, most of which have been uncovered in the last decade. Of particular interest are the cardiovascular complications that may develop in children with OSAS, since they are posited to have not only an immediately significant impact on cardiovascular health during childhood, but may also affect cardiovascular outcomes later during adult life. In this review, we will present the specific cardiovascular complications that have thus far been described in children with OSAS, with reference to pertinent mechanisms, and potential implications.
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