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Sleep problems in subacute myelo-optico neuropathy (SMON).
Nozomi Hishikawa1, Mami Takemoto1, Kota Sato1
1Department of Neurology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan.
Summary
Subacute myelo-optico neuropathy (SMON) patients experience significant sleep disturbances, with 89.6% reporting insomnia and poor sleep quality. These issues, including daytime sleepiness, are linked to long-term SMON sequelae.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Subacute myelo-optico neuropathy (SMON) is associated with chronic sequelae.
- Sleep disturbances are frequently reported by patients with SMON.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of sleep problems in SMON patients.
- To compare sleep issues in SMON patients with age- and gender-matched controls.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based survey was administered to 106 SMON patients and 110 controls.
- Standardized instruments including the Athens Insomnia Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale were used.
- Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder screening questionnaire subscales were analyzed.
Main Results:
- A significantly higher prevalence of insomnia (89.6% vs 54.4%) and poor sleep quality (75.6% vs 39.6%) was observed in SMON patients compared to controls.
- SMON patients reported higher scores for "dreams match nocturnal behavior" and "limb movements" on the REM sleep behavior disorder screening questionnaire.
- Daytime sleepiness was significantly more prevalent in SMON patients (54.0% vs 29.0%).
Conclusions:
- Most SMON patients suffer from insomnia and poor sleep quality, likely due to persistent physical sequelae.
- Elevated daytime sleepiness and increased sleep medication use are common in SMON patients.
- The findings highlight the substantial impact of SMON on sleep health and daytime functioning.
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