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Psychiatric Comorbidities in Pediatric Restless Leg Syndrome
Valeria Mammarella1, Maria Breda1, Dario Esposito2
1Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, Rome 00185.
Abstract:
Recent research reported an association between pediatric Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and psychiatric disorders, in particular attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in which shared symptoms, such as restlessness and difficulty concentrating, can make differential diagnosis challenging. Comorbidities with depression and anxiety, present in adults, have to be considered in children. Behavioral and psychosomatic disorders and autism can be associated with RLS. Both neurobiologic mechanisms and clinical implication could explain the several comorbidities. In clinical practice, pediatric RLS patients should be evaluated for the presence of psychiatric disorders to tailor multidisciplinary intervention and integrated treatment.
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