Axonal peripheral nerve demage in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) has a negative effect on peripheral nerve functions. There are few studies regarding this issue. The aim of the study is to investigate peripheral nerve functions via electromyography (EMG) in patients with OSAS. <b>Methods:</b> Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) was determined via polysomnography. There were 21 patients in the OSAS group (RDI≥5) and 10 individuals in the control group (RDI&lt;5). Conventional sensory and motor conduction studies were performed on the upper and lower extremities via EMG. <b>Results:</b> The right median and ulnar sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) and the right tibial, left tibial, and left median compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude measurements were significantly lower in the OSAS patients when compared to the control group (p&lt;0.01). There was a significant negative correlation between the RDI and the right median and ulnar SNAP and right tibial CMAP amplitudes. There was a significant positive correlation between the average oxygen saturation and the right median, left median, and ulnar SNAP and the right tibial CMAP amplitude measurements. <b>Conclusions:</b> Results indicate that the axonal damage due to night desaturations increased in those with OSAS.