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Obstructive sleep apnoea-associated factors in children and adolescents diagnosed by polysomnography: A scoping
Júlia M Saporiti1, Thiago A de Holanda1, Gabriela G Torino1
1Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil.
Insights
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is more common in males and associated with obesity and tonsillar hypertrophy in children and adolescents. These factors are crucial for evaluating pediatric OSA.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent condition in children and adolescents.
- Diagnostic assessments often involve overnight polysomnography (PSG) and questionnaires.
- Identifying associated factors is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map existing research on factors linked to OSA in pediatric populations.
- To synthesize evidence on the prevalence and associations of OSA risk factors.
- To inform clinical evaluation and diagnostic strategies for pediatric OSA.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of observational studies was conducted.
- Searches included three electronic databases up to May 2023.
- Included studies analyzed factors like sex, obesity, and tonsillar hypertrophy.
Main Results:
- Meta-analysis revealed a higher OSA prevalence in males (RR 1.15).
- Significant associations were found between obesity and OSA (RR 1.42).
- Tonsillar hypertrophy also showed a notable association with OSA (RR 1.61).
Conclusions:
- Sex, obesity, and tonsillar size are important considerations in pediatric OSA evaluation.
- These findings highlight key factors for risk stratification and diagnosis.
- Further research may refine understanding of OSA etiology in youth.
Purpose:
This scoping review aimed to map research on factors associated with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in children and adolescents undergoing overnight polysomnography (PSG) and questionnaire-based diagnostic assessments.
Methods:
Searches were conducted in three electronic databases up to May 2023, including nine observational studies, including 3482 individuals.
Results:
Among the included studies, nine reported on sex, six on obesity, five on tonsillar hypertrophy, three on mouth breathing, two on allergic rhinitis, and three on smoking exposure. The sample comprised 3482 children, with subsets analyzed for sex (n = 3482), obesity (n = 2752), and tonsillar hypertrophy (n = 794). Meta-analysis demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of OSA in males compared to females [P < 0.0001; I2 = 49 %], with a pooled relative risk (RR) of 1.15 (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-1.23). Associations were found between obesity and OSA [RR: 1.42; 95 % CI: 1.20-1.68; P = 0.02; I2 = 61 %], and tonsillar size and OSA [RR: 1.61; 95 % CI: 1.35-1.92; P = 0.06; I2 = 60 %].
Conclusion:
Considering the study's limitations, these findings underscore the importance of considering sex, obesity, and tonsillar size when evaluating OSA in children and adolescents.
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