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Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Central Sleep Apnea: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Classification
Clodagh M Ryan1, T Douglas Bradley1
1Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sleep Research Laboratory, KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G2A2, Canada.
Abstract:
Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a heterogeneous and relatively rare sleep breathing disorder characterized by recurrent reductions in respiratory drive and airflow during sleep. Its complex and not fully understood pathophysiology reflects challenges in respiratory control mechanisms. CSA is associated with cardiovascular, neurologic, systemic, and genetic conditions, and remains a key area for further research, particularly in improving diagnosis and understanding mechanisms. This article outlines the definition, diagnostic approaches, classification, and provides an overview of the underlying pathophysiology of CSA.
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