[The role of biomarkers in the detection of the OSA syndrome. A narrative review of the literature].

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breath disorder associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications, such as hypertension, arrhythmia, coronary artery disease and stroke. Unfortunately, OSA is underdiagnosed.

BACKGROUND

Because of its clinical and therapeutic variability, OSA could benefit a personalized medicine approach. Diagnosis with polysomnography is expensive and access is limited. Clinical scoring systems allow screening of OSA, but many limitations exist. Because of this, biomarkers could be useful for the detection of OSA.

OUTLOOK: Biomarkers specific to OSA would allow for better mass screening and more personalized treatment of the disease. This narrative review of the literature aims to summarize the biomarkers already described for the diagnosis of OSA and clarify both their advantages and limitations in daily practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our review of the literature did not actually identify an ideal biomarker even if promising research is ongoing.