Verification of sleep apnea using a portable sleep apnea screening device

Sixty-seven patients referred to a sleep laboratory with a tentative diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea were examined with a device designed for home use as an apnea screening system. Direct comparison was made between data obtained by the portable device and by data acquired simultaneously with standard polysomnographic techniques. The portable recorder measured nasal/oral airflow, chest wall movement, cardiac rhythm, and blood oxygen saturation. There was no significant difference in the number of disordered breathing events (apneas and hypopneas) recorded by the two systems. The portable device was found to have a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 96%. Indications and limitations for use of the portable home apnea screening test are reviewed and guidelines for normalcy suggested.