Gender Differences in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Preliminary Clinical and Polysomnographic Investigation.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Sleep Medicine
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) exhibits gender-specific clinical patterns, yet its impact on cognitive function remains unclear.
• Potential gender-related phenotypes in OSA may stem from anatomical, physiological, and hormonal differences.
• Investigating gender-based cognitive profiles in OSA is crucial for understanding disease heterogeneity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate neuropsychological and polysomnographic (PSG) differences between female and male OSA patients.
• To determine the impact of gender on clinical manifestations and PSG features in OSA.
• To explore gender-specific cognitive deficits in obstructive sleep apnea.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 28 OSA patients (14 females, 14 males) matched for age, education, and severity was studied.
• Comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and whole-night PSG were performed.
• Correlations between PSG parameters and cognitive test scores were analyzed to link sleep profiles with performance.

Main Results:

• All participants performed within normal cognitive ranges based on Italian norms.
• Female OSA patients exhibited significantly lower scores on the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) Recall Test compared to males.
• No significant differences in clinical manifestations or sleep parameters were observed between genders.

Conclusions:

• This study enhances understanding of gender-related cognitive impairment in OSA.
• Preliminary findings suggest the ROCF Recall Test may be sensitive to cognitive alterations in female OSA patients.
• Further longitudinal research is warranted to assess the long-term risk of dementia in female OSA patients.