[Sleep-related breathing disturbances in motor neuron disease].

Presented are the results of the study of respiratory parameters, together with standard polysomnography, in 18 patients with motor neuron disease (13 males, 5 females, mean age 61,5 +/- 10,6 years). AHI =10 epis./h was found in 10 (56%) cases. Other 4 patients demonstrated a low level (less 94%) of average blood saturation during sleep. The highest number of obstructive episodes was observed in patients with progressive bulbar palsy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with bulbar signs. The lowest level of nighttime saturation was registered in patients with ALS without bulbar signs. Mean saturation (less than 94%) was associated with more pronounced limb muscle weakness, rapid disease progression and worse survival.