Sleep-disordered breathing in children with craniosynostosis.

BACKGROUND

Syndromic craniosynostosis (SC) is associated with a high prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). However, it remains unclear whether non-syndromic craniosynostosis (NSC) is associated with an increased risk for SDB.

SETTING

This study was conducted at a tertiary referral pediatric medical center.

METHODS

A prospective polysomnographic (PSG) evaluation was conducted of all children diagnosed with craniosynostosis over a 3-year period and who had not undergone previous PSG for SDB-related symptoms.

RESULTS

Among 14 children fulfilling inclusion criteria, 10 had NSC and 4 were diagnosed with SC (Crouzon syndrome). SDB was present in 50 % of the NSC and in 75 % of SC. No associations emerged between the number of sutures affected and the presence of SDB.

CONCLUSIONS

SDB is highly prevalent not only in SC but also among asymptomatic children with NSC. The diagnosis of NSC should prompt a diagnostic PSG as a routine component of the clinical evaluation, and PSG findings may aid in the formulation of decisions regarding timing and need for surgical interventions.