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Aberrant sleep patterns in children with the Rett syndrome
C C Piazza1, W Fisher, K Kiesewetter
1Division of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore.
Brain & Development
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Children with Rett syndrome experience significantly disrupted sleep patterns, including more total sleep but less nighttime sleep and more daytime sleep. These sleep disturbances appear to worsen with age.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Previous research on sleep-wake patterns in Rett syndrome has produced conflicting results.
- Understanding these patterns is crucial for managing the condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively characterize the sleep-wake patterns in girls with classical Rett syndrome.
- To investigate the relationship between sleep patterns and age in this population.
Main Methods:
- Momentary time sampling was employed to assess sleep-wake behaviors.
- The study included 20 girls diagnosed with classical Rett syndrome.
Main Results:
- Patients exhibited significantly increased total sleep time compared to age-matched peers.
- A significant reduction in nighttime sleep and a significant increase in daytime sleep were observed.
- Night sleep duration negatively correlated with age, while daytime sleep positively correlated with age.
- High prevalence of night wakings, delayed sleep onset, and early morning awakenings were noted.
Conclusions:
- Children with Rett syndrome demonstrate markedly impaired sleep-wake patterns.
- Sleep dysfunction in Rett syndrome may progress and intensify over time.