Common Comorbidities and Differential Diagnosis of Restless Legs Syndrome

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sensory motor disorder characterized by the urge to move a leg, which worsens with physical and cognitive inactivity, particularly in the evening and at night, but transiently improves with activity. A number of diseases have symptoms that are often confused with those of RLS, and other conditions are associated with higher rates of RLS. RLS can also be exacerbated by certain medications. Because RLS lacks biomarkers and established tests to aid in its diagnosis, clinicians should be aware of the other disorders that can be confused with or accompany RLS.