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The Clinical Importance of Periodic Leg Movements in Sleep

Michela Figorilli1, Monica Puligheddu1, Patrizia Congiu1

  • 1Neurophysiology Unit, Sleep Disorder Center, University of Cagliari, SS 554 Bivio Sestu, Monserrato, Cagliari, 09042, Italy.

Current Treatment Options in Neurology
|March 29, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Periodic leg movements during sleep (PLMS) are linked to increased cardiovascular risk via sympathetic overactivity and inflammation. Further research is needed to understand their long-term impact, especially in children.

Area of Science:

  • Sleep Medicine
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Periodic leg movements during sleep (PLMS) are common in Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and other conditions, increasing with age and affecting children.
  • Research has intensified to understand PLMS pathophysiology, associated events, and clinical significance, particularly concerning cardiovascular implications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize current findings on PLMS, focusing on their relationship with the cardiovascular system.
  • To elucidate the clinical implications of PLMS as a complex motor phenomenon.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing research on PLMS and cardiovascular associations.
  • Analysis of studies linking PLMS to autonomic system modulation and inflammatory pathways.

Main Results:

  • PLMS are associated with nocturnal sympathetic overactivity (blood pressure, heart rate surges) but not global autonomic imbalance.
  • Elevated inflammatory markers in PLMS suggest a link to cardiovascular risk.
  • Comorbidities associated with PLMS may synergistically increase cardiovascular risk, morbidity, and mortality.

Conclusions:

  • PLMS-induced autonomic and inflammatory changes may elevate cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk.
  • The chronic cardiovascular implications of PLMS in children remain largely unknown.
  • Further research is crucial to assess the clinical impact of PLMS and the long-term effects of its treatment on cardiovascular outcomes.
Abstract

Keywords:
PLMS and cardiovascular riskPLMS clinical impactPLMS comorbiditiesPLMS in childrenPLMS scoringPLMS treatment

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