A cross-database bibliometric analysis of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder in Parkinson's disease research

Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is increasingly recognized as both a prodromal marker and a significant predictor of Parkinson's disease (PD) progression. Despite a surge in related research, a comprehensive bibliometric evaluation summarizing the field's development, key contributors, and thematic evolution remains lacking. This study aimed to uncover the knowledge structure and emerging frontiers in RBD-related PD research through bibliometric analysis.

On September 1, 2,025, an extensive literature search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus databases using standardized RBD-related PD keywords. Bibliometric analysis and knowledge mapping were performed with CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and R software.

A total of 2,887 publications were identified, research output has increased steadily since 2013. Keyword co-occurrence and clustering analyses revealed three primary research directions: (1) longitudinal studies of RBD as a prodromal manifestation of synucleinopathies, (2) biomarker discovery for early diagnosis and disease monitoring, and (3) clinical interventions targeting sleep disturbances and neuroprotection. Notably, recent research trends emphasize non-motor symptoms of PD, overlapping mechanisms with Lewy body disease, and the application of advanced neuroimaging and digital sleep-monitoring technologies. Additionally, emerging keywords highlight biomarkers, gender differences, melatonin as focal points.

This bibliometric analysis provides a systematic overview of the RBD-related PD research landscape. It underscores the field's shift from clinical observation to mechanistic exploration and translational application. These findings may guide future studies aimed at improving early detection and developing individualized therapeutic strategies for patients with RBD and PD.