Sleep in Huntington's disease gene expansion carriers: A systematic review.
Karina Lucia Moreira Sassi, Natalia P Rocha, Antonio Lucio Teixeira et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined sleep disturbances in Huntington's disease (HD) gene expansion carriers, synthesizing data from 78 studies. It found a prevalence of sleep issues ranging from 13% to 77%, with common complaints including poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness. Objective measures confirmed fragmented sleep and altered sleep architecture, indicating significant implications for quality of life.
Key findings
- Sleep disturbances in HD gene carriers were reported in 13% to 77% of cases.
- Common subjective complaints included poor sleep quality, insomnia, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Objective measures showed fragmented sleep and altered REM and slow-wave sleep.
- Sleep disruptions often precede motor symptom onset, suggesting their role as prodromal indicators.
Why it matters
Understanding sleep disturbances in Huntington's disease is crucial as they may serve as early indicators of disease progression and significantly affect patients' quality of life. Clinicians should be aware of these issues to better support affected individuals.