Comparing the clinical profile of non obese children with sleep apnea and snoring

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Sleep Medicine
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is increasingly recognized in children, but its cardiovascular and metabolic implications remain understudied.
• Limited research exists on the specific metabolic profiles of non-obese children diagnosed with OSAS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the metabolic profile of non-obese children diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS).
• To compare metabolic parameters and blood pressure between children with OSAS and those with simple snoring.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-two non-obese children (21 girls, 31 boys) were categorized into OSAS (n=28) and Snore (n=22) groups based on polysomnography.
• Evaluations included ENT examination, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and comprehensive blood tests (lipids, glucose, insulin, thyroid function, hemoglobin, hematocrit).
• Data were analyzed comparing the OSAS and Snore groups, and within the OSAS group by severity.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in blood pressure or general blood test results were observed between the groups.
• Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and HDL levels were significantly higher in the simple snoring group compared to the OSAS group.
• VLDL levels were elevated in the OSAS group, but no significant differences were found based on OSAS severity.

Conclusions:

• Non-obese children with OSAS do not exhibit significant alterations in standard metabolic tests or blood pressure.
• While some lipid profile differences (VLDL, HDL) and blood count variations exist, they do not indicate overt metabolic dysfunction in this cohort.