[Restless legs syndrome - a review].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sleep Medicine
• Genetics

Context:

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a prevalent neurological disorder affecting 10-20% of the population in Iceland.
• RLS manifests in two primary forms: idiopathic (often inherited, with onset before age 45) and secondary (associated with underlying conditions like iron depletion, uraemia, or polyneuropathy, with onset after age 45).
• The condition is characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an urge to move, primarily occurring at rest and often disrupting sleep.

Purpose:

• To define Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), differentiating between its idiopathic and secondary forms based on age of onset and etiology.
• To outline the clinical presentation of RLS, including sensory disturbances and the compelling urge to move the legs.
• To highlight the significant impact of RLS on sleep quality and subsequent daytime functioning, as well as its association with periodic limb movements.

Summary:

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a common disorder with a 10-20% prevalence in Iceland, categorized into idiopathic and secondary forms based on onset age and inheritance.
• Symptoms include uncomfortable leg sensations and an urge to move, typically worsening at rest and before sleep, leading to significant sleep disturbance.
• Secondary RLS may stem from iron depletion, uraemia, or polyneuropathy, while idiopathic RLS is often linked to genetic factors.

Impact:

• RLS significantly impacts quality of life, causing daytime somnolence, poor concentration, memory issues, depression, and decreased energy.
• Effective management of RLS is crucial to alleviate symptoms and mitigate the associated negative effects on daily functioning and mental well-being.
• Dopamine agonists represent the current first-line pharmacological treatment for managing Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms.