Comparison of sleep structure and clinical characteristics between REM-related OSA and non- REM-related OSA in children.

OBJECTIVE

To measure the prevalence of REM-related OSA(rapid eye movement related obstructive sleep apnea) in children and describe and compare the demographics, clinical features, and sleep structure characteristics of REM-related OSA compared to non-REM-related OSA(no rapid eye movement related obstructive sleep apnea).

METHODS

Data were collected from 569 children at the Sleep Center of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Nanjing Children's Hospital. Physical examinations were performed, and all participants completed polysomnography (PSG) monitoring. Clinical characteristics and PSG data were compared between children with REM-related OSA and those with non-REM-related OSA.

RESULTS

The prevalence of REM-related OSA in children was 43.4 %. Children with REM-related OSA were more likely to be female compared to those with non-REM-related OSA (P = 0.015). N1(non-rapid eye movement sleep stage 1) sleep duration was shorter (P < 0.001), and SpO2 during REM periods was lower (P < 0.001) in REM-related OSA children compared to non-REM-related OSA children. The prevalence of P-OSA(positional obstructive sleep apnea)was higher in the REM-related OSA group. Female sex and P-OSA were identified as independent risk factors for REM-related OSA.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of REM-related OSA was 43.4 %. Female sex and P-OSA are independent risk factors for REM-related OSA. These findings provide a basis for future personalized treatment strategies for OSA in children.