High Prevalence of Obstructive Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Pediatric Patients With Turner Syndrome

Girls with Turner syndrome (TS) often have features that have been associated with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (oSDB). However, little is known about oSDB in TS. Herein, we aimed to characterize oSDB in young patients with TS and identify associated risk factors.

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Tertiary care pediatric hospital.

We reviewed medical records for patients diagnosed with TS seen at our institution between October 1, 2007 and December 31, 2019 with the first outpatient visit before age 6 years. The prevalence of oSDB was compared to the general pediatric population with 1-sample binomial proportion tests. Clinical characteristics were compared between those diagnosed with oSDB and those without oSDB, and risk factors for oSDB were identified.

Of 151 patients with TS, 73 (48%) were diagnosed with oSDB which is 4-fold higher than the general pediatric population (12%, P < 0.0001). In the multivariable model, adenoid, tonsillar, and inferior turbinate hypertrophy, birthweight, failure to thrive, and older age at the last clinic visit were all associated with increased odds for oSDB.

Young children with TS have a high prevalence of oSDB and thus should be screened for oSDB. Polysomnography should be performed in those with associated risk factors and symptoms oSDB. Treatment of oSDB is imperative as individuals with TS are already at increased risk of behavioral problems, neurocognitive deficits, and growth impairment that may be worsened with oSDB.