Idiopathic Central Sleep Apnea.

Idiopathic central sleep apnoea (ICSA) is a form of periodic hyperventilation followed by central apnea that occurs in the absence of a clear etiologic factor. ICSA generally develops beyond the 5th decade of life and may occur in the presence of cardiovascular risk factors. The natural history and prognostic implications of ICSA are not well understood. In this context, the role of long-term suppressive treatment has not been established. For patients presenting with suspected ICSA, we suggest a careful evaluation for underlying metabolic or physiologic disturbances, monitoring of symptoms and consideration of referral to an expert center.