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Sleep Disorders in Hereditary Ataxias
Lucio Huebra1, Fernando Morgadinho Coelho1, Flávio Moura Rezende Filho2
1Division of General Neurology and Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
|July 26, 2019
Summary
This review details sleep disorders in hereditary ataxias, linking them to neurodegeneration beyond the cerebellum. Understanding these mechanisms is key for managing patient symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Hereditary ataxias are neurodegenerative disorders with diverse genetic and clinical features.
- Degeneration in hereditary ataxias can affect areas beyond the cerebellum, leading to noncerebellar symptoms.
- Sleep disorders are recognized noncerebellar symptoms in hereditary ataxia patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review primary sleep disorders in various hereditary ataxia forms.
- To discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these sleep disturbances.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pathological and clinical studies.
- Analysis of reported sleep disorders in hereditary ataxia cohorts.
Main Results:
- Common sleep disorders include REM sleep behavior disorder, insomnia, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Sleep apnea (obstructive and central), periodic leg movements, and restless legs syndrome are also prevalent.
- Pathological studies indicate nervous system involvement beyond the cerebellum contributes to these symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Sleep disorders are significant noncerebellar manifestations of hereditary ataxias.
- Understanding the neurodegenerative basis of these sleep issues is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
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