Narcolepsy in Children.
- Author:
Wan Seok SEO
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Narcolepsy;
Cataplexy;
Children;
Toddler
- MeSH:
Cataplexy;
Child;
HLA Antigens;
Humans;
Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins;
Narcolepsy;
Neuropeptides;
Parents;
Orexins
- From:Sleep Medicine and Psychophysiology
2011;18(1):17-22
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Childhood narcolepsy is one of the underdiagnosed diseases even the first symptoms often appear in childhood. Making diagnosis through history taking is not always easy because the symptoms of childhood narcolepsy are different from those of adulthood. Diagnostic laboratory tests such as sleep studies, tests for human leukocyte antigens, cerebrospinal fluid hypocretin measurement should be considered when the child has excessive daytime sleepiness without cataplexy. Treatment approach should be start as early as possible to avoid secondary academic, emotional difficulties. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological management, and close cooperation between parents and school teachers should be maintained. In the near future, childhood narcolepsy can be a key to understand the pathogenesis of narcolepsy.
