Endocrine disorders in obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome: A bidirectional relationship

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Sleep Medicine
• Cardiometabolic Health

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent condition affecting millions globally, with increasing incidence.
• OSA is associated with significant health risks, including cardiometabolic disorders, due to intermittent hypoxia and inflammation.
• The interplay between endocrine disorders and OSA is complex and bidirectional, with each condition influencing the other.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on the bidirectional relationship between endocrine disorders and obstructive sleep apnoea.
• To explore how endocrine disorders impact OSA prevalence and vice versa.
• To discuss the effects of treating OSA and associated endocrine conditions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive review of current medical literature.
• Focus on key articles examining the relationship between endocrine disorders and OSA.
• Analysis of treatment effects and screening strategies.

Main Results:

• Several endocrine disorders, including obesity, hypothyroidism, acromegaly, Cushing syndrome, and diabetes, are risk factors for OSA.
• OSA can induce endocrine disorders, particularly abnormalities in glucose metabolism.
• Treatment of underlying endocrine disorders can sometimes improve or resolve OSA.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between OSA and endocrine disorders is bidirectional and clinically significant.
• Screening for OSA in patients with endocrine disorders is important, though debated.
• Further research is needed to clarify the impact of OSA treatment on endocrine disturbances.