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Sleep apnoea caused by rheumatoid arthritis
K W Drossaers-Bakker1, H L Hamburger, E B Bongartz
1Slotervaart Ziekenhuis, The Netherlands.
British Journal of Rheumatology
|September 12, 1998
Summary
Sleep apnoea syndrome (SAS) can be a lethal complication of rheumatoid arthritis affecting the cervical spine. Early recognition and treatment of SAS improve survival rates in affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause cervical spine instability.
- Cervical spine instability is a rare cause of sleep apnoea syndrome (SAS).
Observation:
- Presents five patients with SAS (central or peripheral) secondary to cervical spine instability in RA.
- Highlights challenges in recognizing and diagnosing SAS in this context.
Findings:
- SAS in RA patients with cervical instability can be central or peripheral.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing SAS.
Implications:
- Increased clinician awareness of SAS in RA is needed for prompt diagnosis.
- Appropriate treatment improves survival in both peripheral and central SAS.
- This highlights a critical, under-recognized complication of RA affecting the upper airway and sleep quality.