High prevalence of restless legs syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Introduction Background : data regarding the sleep dysturbancies in systemic lupus erytematosous (SLE) are scarce. Objective : the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) and sleep dysturbancies in systemic lupus erythematosus. Materials and methods prospective study on consecutive patients with SLE. We used a standardized questionnaire with face-to-face interview. RLS diagnosed were based on the criteria of the RLS Study Group. The severity of RLS was assessed by Restless Legs Syndrome Rating Scale and quality of life by Restless Legs Syndrome Quality of Life Instrument. Sleep was assesed by Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. The patients had to choose from a list of terms which described the sensations in their legs. Results 42 patients with SLE (40 women) were included in the study, mean age 53.43 ± 22.69 years (limits 21–78). 17 patients (40.47%) met the criteria for RLS. Six patients describe frequency of occuring of RLS in 6–7 nights per week, 4 in 4–5, 3 in 1–3 nights, 2 in 2–4 times per month and 2 patients one time per month. Multivariate analyses showed that risk factors for RLS were age and disease duration. Severe insomnia was reported by 15 patients (35.71%). Conclusion the prevalence of RLS is high is SLE. The severity of disease is high and occurs in 58% more than 4 nights per week.