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Sleep-disordered breathing and C-reactive protein in obese children and adolescents

Annelies Van Eyck1, Kim Van Hoorenbeeck, Benedicte Y De Winter

  • 1Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium, annelies.vaneyck@ua.ac.be.

Sleep & Breathing = Schlaf & Atmung
|September 4, 2013
PubMed

Insights

C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in obese children are linked to obesity, not sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). This contrasts with adult findings, suggesting SDB does not independently impact CRP in this pediatric group.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is prevalent in overweight/obese children and a cardiovascular disease risk factor.
  • Inflammation, indicated by C-reactive protein (CRP), may link SDB to cardiovascular issues.
  • Adult studies show CRP correlates with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between CRP and OSAS in overweight and obese children.
  • To determine if CRP levels are influenced by the presence or severity of OSAS in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 120 children (85 without OSAS, 20 mild OSAS, 15 moderate-to-severe OSAS).
  • All participants underwent polysomnography to diagnose OSAS.
  • Blood samples were analyzed for CRP levels.

Main Results:

  • No significant difference in CRP levels was found between children with and without OSAS.
  • CRP levels did not correlate with OSAS severity.
  • CRP showed a positive correlation with BMI and fat mass.

Conclusions:

  • In obese children and adolescents, CRP levels correlate with obesity but are not influenced by SDB.
  • This finding differs from adult populations, indicating a distinct relationship in pediatric obesity.
Abstract

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