Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire Scores Research Articles

Assessment of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire, and Mallampati Score in Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: An Observational Study

Background and Objective Individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) experience recurrent episodes of breathing cessation due to blockage of the upper airway during sleep. This study aimed to assess the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) scores, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) scores, and Mallampati score in pediatric patients with OSA, compared with non-OSA.Methods An observational study was conducted on 100 pediatric female patients aged 9-13 years with retrognathic mandible. The participants were subjected to PSQ, ESS, and Mallampati score to assess the size and shape of the patient’s tongue and esophageal airway. Finally, polysomnographic examination was carried out for all the participants and they were divided into two groups: Group 1 (50 patients) who were diagnosed with OSA by polysomnography and Group 2 (50 patients) consisting of non-OSA patients. Chi-square and Mann–Whitney U test were applied to compare scores between the two groups.Results The mean PSQ, ESS, and Mallampati scores of participants were 0.78 ± 0.45, 9.86 ± 2.47, and 2.27 ± 0.98, respectively in Group 1 and 0.24 ± 0.03, 7.27 ± 2.39, and 1.32 ± 0.57, respectively in Group 2, and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). PSQ, ESS, and Mallampati scores had specificity of 100%, 95.5%, and 72.7%, respectively, whereas the sensitivity was 45.5%, 22.7%, and 63.6%, respectively. ESS scores ≥ 10, PSQ scores ≥ 0.3, and Mallampati scores ≥ 2 were indicative of OSA.Conclusions Patients with OSA having retrognathic mandible had higher PSQ, ESS, and Mallampati scores compared to healthy individuals without OSA. Mallampati score can be satisfactorily used for screening OSA patients.

Is the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire sensitive for sleep-disordered breathing in children with complex chronic disease?

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a disease defined by breathing or breathing irregularities while asleep. The current study examines the association between results of polysomnography (PSG) and the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ), and the specificity and sensitivity of the PSQfor obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with chronic illnesses. Demographic and clinical attributes, in addition to PSQ and PSG outcomes were examined retrospectively among patients who underwent polysomnography (PSG) at our facilitybetween 2012 and 2021. Of 745 patients included in the study, 462 (62%) were male. The median age was 81months (34-151months). 117 of the patients (15/8%)had chronic lung disease, and 80 (10.7%) had cerebral palsy. The most common indications for PSG were symptoms of OSA (n = 426; 57.1%). According to obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), 361 patients (48.5%) had normal PSG. The median PSQ score was 0.40 (0.22-0.57). The sensitivity and specificity of the PSQ were 71.8% and 40.4%, respectively, for individuals aged 2 to 18years. Among the disease subgroups, the cerebral palsy group had the highest sensitivity of PSQ (88.8%) for diagnosis ofOSA. Questionnaires for evaluating SDB are not sensitive or specific for identification ofOSA in children with chronic conditions, and PSG remains the best method.

Screening for sleep disordered breathing among children hospitalized for asthma exacerbation.

Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) may exacerbate asthma and is a treatable comorbidity. To design and implement a screening process for SDB in patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation using quality improvement (QI) methods. We sought to improve screening for SDB from zero to 60% from July 2019 to December 2020. A multidisciplinary team used QI methods to screen for SDB using the Michigan pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) in patients 2-18 years hospitalized for asthma exacerbation. Key interventions included: pairing the PSQ screen with another element of routine care (the asthma risk factor screen), educating staff and physicians, engaging respiratory therapists to complete the PSQ and document scores, and modifying the electronic medical record (asthma order set and flowsheet for PSQ score documentation). A run chart tracked progress and descriptive statistics were generated. There were 2067 patients admitted for asthma exacerbation during this project. The PSQ was completed for 1531 patients (74%) overall. Of screened patients, 360 (24%) had a positive PSQ; the mean age was 8.6 years. Approximately 14 months after the project began, ~90% of children admitted for asthma were being screened; subsequently, >80% of patients were being screened until May 2022. Screening with the PSQ occurred approximately 90% of the time when routine asthma risk screens were completed. A screening process for SDB was successfully implemented and appeared feasible and sustainable. The high proportion of positive screens reinforces the importance of evaluating for SDB in the high-risk population of children requiring hospitalization for asthma exacerbation.

Risk Assessment of Sleep Disordered Breathing in Cleft Lip and/or Palate.

Children with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) are at increased risk for Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), particularly Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). At our institution, routine screening for SDB is performed using the Chevrin Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ). This analysis is a practice audit looking at the outcomes of screening children with CL/P. A single-center, retrospective analysis was done of all non-syndromic patients with CL/P over the age of 36 months over a 4-year period. Children with known OSA were eliminated from analysis. Univariate logistic regression was used to assess predictors for SDB (PSQ score > 8) amongst various patient, disease, and treatment characteristics. Outcomes of those screened were tracked. Of the 239 patients in the study cohort, 43 (18%) had positive PSQs. These subjects were more likely to have class III dental occlusion with maxillary retrusion (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.2-5.8, p = 0.02). There were no differences amongst age, type of cleft, Veau classification, BMI, or history of pharyngeal surgery. One third of the group did not complete recommended testing. Twenty-five subjects with positive sleep screening underwent subsequent polysomnography and 21 (84%) had OSA. Routine screening reveals a significant proportion of patients with CL/P with symptoms suggestive of OSA. While several patients did not complete confirmatory testing, those who completed a PSG had a high rate of identification of OSA. After excluding children with known OSA, patients with SDB are also likely to have class III dental occlusion and maxillary retrusion.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Developmental Age: 22-Item Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire for an Observational Descriptive Investigation.

The aim of this paper is to perform an observational descriptive study of the Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) in a population of children by evaluating the prevalence and role of sex and age variables. The 22-item Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) was administered to parents of children aged 3 to 12 years. The questionnaire is a very simple tool since it allows for the indication of patients with possible OSAS diagnosis through a cut-off of 0.33. The anonymous diagnostic questionnaire, available in digital format, was administered to the population under study by a link or QR code. Only the questionnaires completed in all their parts were recorded and analyzed. Eight hundred and thirty-two questionnaires were collected. One hundred and fifty-four subjects obtained a PSQ score > 0.33 and the prevalence of OSAS was 18.51%. The Chi-square test showed a statistically significant association between the PSQ score > 0.33 and male sex. The higher prevalence of subjects with a value of PSQ > 0.33 (n = 277) are aged 3-4-5 years, followed by the 6-7-8 range in the group with PSQ score > 0.33, p < 0.05. The prevalence of OSAS was 18.51% in children aged 3 to 12 years. The variables male biological sex and the age group 3-8 year were statistically significant for subjects with OSAS diagnosis. This study underlines the use of the 22-item Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire as a first screening tool to identify children at risk of OSAS.

Investigation of Factors Influencing Sleep Status in Beijing Children Aged 3 to 14 Years.

To investigate the current status of children's sleep in Beijing and analyze the factors that influence it. Using multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling, a total of 11 420 children aged 3 to 14 years in 7 districts of Beijing were included in this study. The Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) was used to investigate and analyze various factors influencing sleep. The mean PSQ score of the children surveyed was 3.60 ± 2.69 points. The proportion of children with a score above 7 was 8.87%. Multi-level model analysis showed that the younger children had higher PSQ scores than older and that the boys had higher PSQ scores than the girls. The sleep quality of children in Beijing is not optimistic. The PSQ score of preschool children is higher than school age children. It is recommended that parents pay attention to their children's sleep status and try to remove influencing factors.

Utility of Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea with the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) in Children with Craniofacial Anomalies.

To determine the accuracy of the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) as a screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea in children with craniofacial anomalies. Retrospective cohort study. Multidisciplinary cleft and craniofacial clinic at a tertiary care center. Children with craniofacial anomalies 2 to ≤18 years of age who both completed a PSQ screen and underwent polysomnography (PSG) without interval surgery. Sensitivity and specificity of the PSQ in detecting an obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 5 events/hour. Fifty children met study criteria, with 66% (n = 33) having an associated syndrome. Mean patient age at time of PSQ was 9.6 + 4.0 years. Overall, 33 (64%) screened positive on the PSQ, while 20 (40%) had an AHI ≥ 5. The sensitivity and specificity for identifying AHI ≥ 5 was 70% and 40%, respectively. With subgroup analysis, the sensitivity and specificity were higher (100% and 50%) in children with non-syndromic palatal clefting but lower (65% and 31%) in children with a syndrome or chromosomal anomaly. There was no correlation detected between PSQ score and AHI severity (p = 0.25). The mean obstructive AHI in the study population was 10.1 ± 22.7 despite 44% (n = 22) undergoing prior adenotonsillectomy. The PSQ was less sensitive and specific in detecting an AHI ≥ 5 in children with craniofacial anomalies than in a general population, and particularly poor in for children with syndrome-associated craniofacial conditions. Given the high prevalence of OSA in this patient population, a craniofacial-specific validated screening tool would be beneficial.

Association of Apnea vs Hypopnea Predominance With Pediatric Sleep Apnea Outcomes

Children with apnea-predominant obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are hypothesized to have a more severe form of the disease. However, research is lacking as to whether there is a significant difference in outcomes between children with apnea-predominant vs hypopnea-predominant OSA. To assess the association between baseline apnea-predominant or hypopnea-predominant OSA on polysomnography and quality of life (QOL) outcomes in children with obstructive sleep apnea managed by watchful waiting with supportive care (WWSC) or adenotonsillectomy (AT). This case-control study is a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial, the Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial, which was conducted at multiple tertiary children's hospitals from October 2007 to June 2012. Children aged 5.0 to 9.9 years with OSA were randomized to WWSC or AT and underwent polysomnography and completed validated QOL and symptom assessments at baseline and 7 months. The current data analysis was performed from October 2020 to February 2022. Apnea-predominant OSA was defined as an apnea hypopnea index (AHI) greater than 2 with more than 50% of the obstructive events being apneas. Patients were considered to have hypopnea-predominant OSA if they had an AHI greater than 2 and more than 50% of the obstructive events were hypopneas. A total of 386 children (185 boys [48%]; mean [SD] age, 6.56 [1.4] years) were analyzed. The mean (SD) obstructive AHI for patients was 6.98 (5.62), with 198 patients (51%) having mild disease. Thirty-seven children (10%) had apnea-predominant OSA at baseline. Black children were at increased risk for apnea-predominant OSA vs White children (odds ratio [OR], 13.40; 95% CI, 5.70-33.90). Children with apnea predominance were more likely to have severe OSA (AHI >10) compared with children with hypopnea predominance (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.03-5.03); baseline Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire and OSA-18 QOL scores were similar between the 2 groups. Among children undergoing AT, those with baseline apnea predominance were more likely to have a Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire score greater than 0.33 at follow-up (OR, 3.30; 95% CI, 1.01-10.80). Rates of OSA resolution and improvements in QOL scores following AT or WWSC were similar between the apnea-predominant and hypopnea-predominant groups. In children with OSA, apnea-predominant disease is uncommon. Apnea predominance was not associated with symptom resolution and cure rates in children undergoing AT or WWSC for OSA. Further research is needed to assess how apnea predominance affects AT outcomes in children with more severe disease.

Evaluating symptoms and polysomnographic findings among male and female children with obesity with and without obstructive sleep apnea

ObjectiveLimited data regarding sex-based differences in the presentation and phenotype of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) exists among children with obesity. The study objectives were to compare reported symptoms and polysomnogram (PSG) findings between children with obesity 1) with and without OSA and 2) males and females with OSA. Patients/methodsThis cross-sectional study included children with obesity, aged 8–18 years, with a diagnostic PSG between 2015 and 2021, referred for evaluating sleep-related breathing. Patient demographics, anthropometrics, and PSG data were recorded. Symptoms were evaluated using Epworth Sleepiness Scale and Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire. Pubertal staging was collected using Tanner Stage questionnaire. PSG parameters, symptoms and pubertal stage were compared between sexes with and without OSA. ResultsOf 148 children, 61 (41%) had OSA. Within the OSA group, 41/62 (69%) were male (p = 0.002). Males with OSA reported higher Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire scores compared to males without OSA (0.38 ± 0.2 vs 0.23 ± 0.1; p = 0.002). Males with OSA reported more trouble breathing (p = 0.04) and mouth breathing (p = 0.008) compared to females with OSA. Females with OSA showed longer sleep onset latency (45.8 ± 40.6 min vs 22.4 ± 26.7; p = 0.02) and higher supine obstructive-apnea hypopnea index (32.9 ± 31.1 vs 20.4 ± 18.4 events/hour; p = 0.02) compared to males with OSA. A significant interaction was found between male sex and waist-to-height ratio (β = 15.34, R2 = 0.18, p = 0.05). ConclusionsSex differences in symptoms and phenotype of OSA exist among children with obesity. Such information is beneficial for early diagnosis and management to mitigate adverse outcomes and comorbidities.

A Study on Factors Related to Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children

The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors associated with sleep disordered breathing (SDB) by comparing intraoral factors, body mass index (BMI), and medical history with pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) findings.Seven hundred eighty-seven subjects aged between 7 to 11 years old were included. Their caregivers were asked to complete questionnaires. Oral manifestations including Angle’s classification, overjet, and Brodsky tonsil grade were examined. Children with PSQ scores of more than 0.33 points were classified into the SDB high-risk group.Among the 787 subjects, 34 (4.3%) were classified into the SDB high-risk group. Children with allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, excessive overjet, or large tonsil size had a significantly higher risk for SDB versus those without. Also, there was a significant difference in SDB risk according to BMI status. Gender, gestational age, breastfeeding, and Angle’s classification were not associated with SDB.Children at high risk for SDB were predisposed to tonsillar hypertrophy, allergic rhinitis, obesity, and atopic dermatitis. Children with these factors could be candidates for early intervention to prevent the progression of SDB.

Impact of rapid palatal expansion on the size of adenoids and tonsils in children

IntroductionAdenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy in children often leads to adverse respiratory symptoms and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Current clinical guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery recommend tonsillectomy as the first line of pediatric OSA treatment for children with tonsillar hypertrophy. Rapid palatal expansion (RPE) performed by orthodontists improves obstructive sleep apnea in children by reducing nasal airway resistance, increasing nasal volume, raising tongue posture, and enlarging pharyngeal airway. However, the role of RPE in alleviating adenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy remains elusive. In this study, we aim to evaluate the changes in adenoid and palatine tonsil sizes following RPE using 3D volumetric analysis of cone beam computational tomography (CBCT) imaging. Materials and methodsIn this retrospective cohort study, a total of 60 pediatric patients (mean age: 8.00, range: 5–15, 32 females and 28 males) who had tonsillar hypertrophy (size 3 and 4) were included and divided into the control group (n = 20) and expansion group (n = 40). The control group did not undergo any treatment. The expansion group underwent RPE using a conventional Hyrax expander, activated 0.25 mm per day for 4–6 weeks. Final CBCT scans (T2) were performed 13.8 ± 6.5 months after the initial scan (T1). Pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) and BMI were obtained at each timepoint. Volumetric analysis of adenoid and palatine tonsils was performed using a combination of bony and soft tissue landmarks in CBCT scans through Anatomage Invivo 6 imaging software. Paired t-tests were used to evaluate the difference between the initial and final adenoid and tonsil volumes. p values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. ResultsCompared to the control group, the expansion group experienced a statistically significant decrease in both adenoid and tonsil volume. There was non-statistically significant increase in volume from T1 to T2 for the control group. For the expansion group, 90.0% and 97.5% of patients experienced significant reduction in adenoid and tonsil volume, respectively. The average volume decrease of adenoids was 16.8% while that of tonsils was 38.5%. The patients had up to 51.6% and 75.4% reduction in adenoid and tonsil size, respectively, following RPE orthodontic treatment. Pearson correlation ranged from 0.88 to 0.99 for each measurement, representing excellent internal consistency. There was a significant reduction in the PSQ scores from 5.81 ± 3.31 to 3.75 ± 2.38 in expansion group (p < 0.001). ConclusionsOur results demonstrated that RPE significantly reduced the size of both adenoid and palatine tonsils and revealed another long-term benefit of RPE treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first study to quantify the changes of adenoids and tonsils following RPE. RPE treatment can be considered as a valid and effective treatment option for pediatric OSA population with narrow high arch palate and adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

Can sleep questionnaires predict adenotonsillectomy outcome for children with sleep disordered breathing?

IntroductionAdenotonsillar hypertrophy is the main cause of childhood sleep disordered breathing (SDB) and adenotonsillectomy (TA) the most common treatment. Polysomnography (PSG) for diagnosing SDB is often difficult to obtain with Otolaryngologists usually relying on history and examination when recommending TA. Questionnaires assessing quality of life (QoL) may assist the Otolaryngologists decision making. AimsTo explore changes in QoL tools following TA for SDB in children aged 3 to 15 with the aim of identifying whether the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) or Obstructive Sleep Apnoea −18 (OSA-18) is a better predictor of outcome following TA. MethodsQoL was assessed using OSA-18, PSQ and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™). Four groups were recruited from three research databases, those with: SDB, recurrent tonsillitis (RT), SDB and RT, or no disease (controls). Children either received TA or underwent observation. QoL questionnaires were administered at recruitment and 3 months later. Test-retest reliability was assessed using Bland-Altman plots. Pre-intervention scores were plotted against changes in scores, with pre-established cut-offs and cut-offs indicated by control group variability. ResultsThere were 120 children, 25 had no intervention, and 19 were controls. All questionnaires showed test-retest reliability over time. Using the distribution of scores from the control group we estimated the 95th percentile to redefine the cut-off for OSA-18 (reduced from 60 to 46) and PSQ (unchanged from 0.33). Higher pre-operative scores predicted greater reduction following TA, with OSA-18 the most consistent predictor of QoL change. The PSQ classified 86.8% of children undergoing TA above the 0.33 cut-off; whereas OSA-18 classified 73.7% above the 46 cut-off. Of these, 71.2% and 87.5% showed improvement after TA, respectively. Using the 95% confidence interval for change in the control group to identify a ‘meaningful’ change in score, children with OSA-18 scores >46 had a 93% chance of a meaningful improvement, whereas PSQ scores >0.33 were associated with an 80% chance of a meaningful improvement. ConclusionsOSA-18 is a better predictor of improved QoL than PSQ for TA in children with SDB. We propose a new cut off score (>46) for OSA-18. This may assist Otolaryngologists’ decision making when assessing a child with SDB.

Impact of Adenotonsillectomy on Homework Performance in Children With Obstructive Sleep-Disordered Breathing.

As a first line treatment for pediatric obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), adenotonsillectomy (AT) has been shown to confer physiologic and neurocognitive benefits to a child. However, there is a scarcity of data on how homework performance is affected postoperatively. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of AT on homework performance in children with SDB. Children in grades 1 to 8 undergoing AT for SDB based on clinical criteria with or without preoperative polysomnography along with a control group of children undergoing surgery unrelated to the treatment of SDB were recruited. The primary outcome of interest was the differential change in homework performance between the study group and control at follow-up as measured by the validated Homework Performance Questionnaire (HPQ-P). Adjustments were made for demographics and Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) scores. 116 AT and 47 control subjects were recruited, and follow-up data was obtained in 99 AT and 35 control subjects. There were no significant differences between the general (total) HPQ-P scores and subscale scores between the AT and control subjects at entry and there were no significant differences in the change scores (follow-up minus initial scores) between the groups. Regression modeling also demonstrated that there were no group (AT vs control) by time interactions that predicted differential improvements in the HPQ-P (P > .10 for each model) although initial PSQ score was a significant predictor of lower HPQ-P scores for all models. Children with SDB experienced improvement in HPQ-P scores postoperatively, but the degree of change was not significant when compared to controls. Further studies incorporating additional educational metrics are encouraged to assess the true scholastic impact of AT in children with SDB.

Nasal cavity structural anomalies in children and adolescents at high risk of sleep-disordered breathing: An exploratory cone-beam computed tomography study

In this study, we investigated the presence of structural anomalies in the nasal cavity (deviated nasal septum [DNS] and turbinate hypertrophy [TH]) in patients at high risk or not of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). A retrospective study considering available cone-beam computed tomography scans of 99 patients was conducted. DolphinImaging software (Dolphin Imaging and Management Solutions, Chatsworth, Calif) was used to process the craniofacial scans. A pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) was used to suggest a high risk of SDB. Subjective and objective assessments of DNS and TH were considered. Good to excellent intrareliability and interreliability were attained. The prevalence of a PSQ score suggestive of a high risk of SDB in this sample was 59%. The prevalence of subjective DNS and TH assessment was 64% and 70%, respectively. In contrast, on the basis of objective assessments, 27% of patients presented with DNS and 25% with TH. Cross-tabulation of DNS and TH with PSQ score indicated a statistically significant association between subjective DNS and subjective TH and subjective TH and positive PSQ. A positive correlation between age and subjective and objective DNS assessments was also observed. Older patients are more likely to present with DNS. Only the presence of subjectively determined TH in patients is associated with a high risk for SDB. The study reveals that assessment of DNS and TH using cone-beam computed tomography imaging is not likely suitable to strongly suggest patients at high risk for SDB. DNS subjective assessments were capable of identifying less than 5% of deviation.

Sleep disorders in a sample of Lebanese children: the role of parental mental health and child nutrition and activity

BackgroundSleep habits are an important component of a child’s health and it is affected by parent–child relationship. Also, child’s diet and nutrition appear to be an important factor affecting sleep health. Few studies have addressed the effect of parental emotional disturbance that can leave on children’s sleep. Therefore, the objective of our study was to assess the prevalence of sleep disorders in pre- and school-aged children and evaluate its relation with parental mental health and child’s nutrition and activity.MethodsA cross-sectional study, conducted between October 2020 and January 2021, which enrolled 402 Lebanese parents from all over Lebanon. The questionnaire was distributed online using the snowball technique. The Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) was used to assess pediatric sleep behaviors and the Family Nutrition and physical activity questionnaire was used to assess parental behaviors that might predispose children for obesity.ResultsA total of 76 (19%) children had sleep disorders (PSQ scores of 8 or more). The multivariable analysis showed that higher paternal depression (Beta = 0.079, p = 0.010), maternal depression (Beta = 0.089, p = 0.001) and higher anxiety in the father (Beta = 0.064, p = 0.021) were significantly associated with higher PSQ scores (worse sleep) in the child. Higher Family Nutrition and Physical Activity Screening Tool scores in the child (Beta = -0.161, p < 0.001) was significantly associated with lower PSQ scores (better sleep).ConclusionPaternal anxiety and depression, as well as maternal depression, were factors associated with children’s sleeping disorders. Future studies are needed to assess parental influence on child’s development.

554 Utilization of Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire to Screen for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Difficult-to-treat Asthma Cohort

Abstract Introduction Early detection and management of obstructive sleep apnea(OSA) could improve asthma control in children with difficult-to-treat(DTT) asthma. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the pediatric sleep questionnaire(PSQ) to screen for OSA in children with DTT asthma, and to compare clinical characteristics between those with positive and negative PSQ scores. Methods A prospective study of 81 children with DTT asthma was completed from 2015–2017. The PSQ, Epworth sleepiness scale(ESS), Pediatric Quality of Life(PQL), and the academic performance questionnaires(APQ) were administered during clinic visits. Polysomnography(PSG) was recommended for PSQ score&amp;gt;0.33. Medical records were reviewed for asthma clinical characteristics. The cohort was separated into positive(PSQ&amp;gt;0.33) and negative PSQ score(PSQ≤0.33) groups for analysis. Results The mean age of the cohort was 11.3±4.5 years and the mean body mass index was 22±7.6 kg/m2. Sixty-two percent were male and 68% were African-American. Forty-nine(53%) subjects had positive PSQ (0.5[0.4 – 0.7]). The positive group had higher ESS score (10.5[8 – 13] vs. 6[2 – 8], p&amp;lt;0.0001) and lower total PQL score (58.7[47.8–72.8] vs. 79.4[70.7 – 87], p&amp;lt;0.0001) than the negative group. There was no difference between APQ scores(p=0.07). The positive group had lower asthma control test(ACT) scores than the negative group (17.5[15 – 20.5] vs. 21[19 – 22], p&amp;lt;0.0001). Furthermore, the positive group was more likely to have gastroesophageal reflux (OR: 3.97, 95%CI: 1.7 to 9.1, p=0.0018). Twenty-nine(59%) subjects in the positive group had subsequent PSG, and 17(58.6%) subjects were diagnosed with OSA (14 mild OSA, 1 moderate OSA, 2 severe OSA). The mean obstructive index in the positive group was 3±5.5 events/hour. There was 1 subject with central apnea and alveolar hypoventilation. Of the 17 subjects with OSA, all received treatment with nasal steroids, 3 were treated with non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, and 4 had surgical intervention. Conclusion Children with DTT asthma who have positive PSQ have higher degree of daytime sleepiness, lower quality of life and worse asthma control. The positive group was more likely to have GERD, which may suggest a relationship between nighttime asthma symptoms and OSA. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of OSA treatment on asthma control. Support (if any):

Sex differences in the relationship of sleep-disordered breathing and asthma control among children with severe asthma

Objective Children with severe asthma are underrepresented in studies of the relationship of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and asthma and little is known about sex differences of these relationships. We sought to determine the relationship of SDB with asthma control and lung function among boys and girls within a pediatric severe asthma cohort. Methods Patients attending clinic visits at the Boston Children’s Hospital Pediatric Severe Asthma Program completed the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ), Asthma Control Test (ACT) and Spirometry. The prevalence of SDB was defined as a PSQ score >0.33. We analyzed the association between PSQ score and both ACT score and spirometry values in mixed effect models, testing interactions for age and sex. Results Among 37 subjects, mean age was 11.8 years (4.4) and 23 (62.2%) were male, the prevalence of SDB was 43.2% (16/37). Including all 80 observations, there was a moderate negative correlation between PSQ and ACT scores (r=-0.46, p < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression models revealed a significant sex interaction with PSQ on asthma control (p = 0.003), such that for each 0.10 point increase in PSQ there was a 1.88 point decrease in ACT score for females but only 0.21 point decrease in ACT score for males. A positive PSQ screen was associated with a 9.44 point (CI 5.54, 13.34, p < 0.001) lower ACT score for females and a 3.22 point (CI 0.56, 5.88, p = 0.02) lower score for males. Conclusions SDB is common among children with severe asthma. Among children with severe asthma, SDB in girls portends to significantly worse asthma control than boys. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/02770903.2021.1897838.

Potential impact of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea on mandibular cortical width dimensions.

To analyze differences in mandibular cortical width (MCW) among children diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or at high- or low-risk for OSA. A total of 161 children were assessed: 60 children with polysomnographically diagnosed OSA, 56 children presenting symptoms suggestive of high-risk for OSA, and 45 children at low risk for OSA. Children at high- and low-risk for OSA were evaluated through the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire. MCW was calculated using ImageJ software from panoramic radiograph images available from all participants. Differences between MCW measurements in the 3 groups were evaluated using analysis of covariance and Bonferroni post-hoc tests, with age as a covariate. The association between MCW and specific cephalometric variables was assessed through regression analysis. The participants' mean age was 9.6 ± 3.1 years (59% male and 41% female). The mean body mass index z-score was 0.62 ± 1.3. The polysomnographically diagnosed OSA group presented smaller MCW than the group at low-risk for OSA (mean difference = -0.385 mm, P = .001), but no difference with the group at high-risk for OSA (polysomnographically diagnosed OSA vs high-risk OSA: P = .085). In addition, the MCW in the group at high-risk for the OSA was significantly smaller than the group at low-risk for the OSA (mean difference = -0.301 mm, P = .014). The cephalometric variables (Sella-Nasion-A point angle (SNA) and Frankfort - Mandibular Plane angle (FMA)) explained only 8% of the variance in MCW. Reductions in MCW appear to be present among children with OSA or those at high-risk for OSA, suggesting potential interactions between mandibular bone development and/or homeostasis and pediatric OSA. Fernandes Fagundes NC, d'Apuzzo F, Perillo L, et al. Potential impact of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea on mandibular cortical width dimensions. J Clin Sleep Med. 2021;17(8):1627-1634.

Abstract P584: Sleep in Pediatric Stroke Study (SleePSS): Neuroimaging and Neurocognitive Correlates of Sleep Health in Pediatric Stroke

Introduction: Pediatric arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) is a serious cause of lifelong neurological and cognitive disabilities. Although they are at increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), children with AIS may have abnormal sleep indices even in the absence of OSA diagnosis. This can adversely affect their blood vessels health (impaired cerebrovascular reactivity, CVR) and can lead to neurocognitive impairments. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association of cerebral blood vessels health with polysomnographic measures and cognitive function in children with AIS. Hypothesis: Quantitative measure of negative CVR, i.e. fractional negativity (fneg) and negative CVR correlate significantly with abnormal overnight oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in children with AIS, even in the absence of OSA. Methods: We conducted a single-centre cross-sectional study in children with AIS aged between 8 and 18 years old and who were not at risk of OSA (i.e., pediatric sleep questionnaire score&lt;0.33). All children were evaluated using: (1) Non-invasive Blood Oxygen Level Dependent magnetic resonance imaging to study CVR. (2) An overnight polysomnography (3) Comprehensive evaluation of intellectual abilities, attention and executive function. Results: Ten children with AIS (40% males; median age: 14.3 years) were included after a median of 8.8 years following stroke onset. None of the children was diagnosed with OSA. We found significant correlations between fneg and minimum oxygen saturation during REM sleep (r=0.81, r=0.68 and r=0.76 in grey matter, white matter and whole brain, respectively; p&lt;0.05). The whole brain mean negative CVR correlated significantly with the visual spatial, fluid reasoning, and emotion regulation indices (r=-0.82, -0.8, and 0.75, respectively, p&lt;0.05). Mean negative CVR in white matter correlated significantly with the indices of executive function (emotion regulation, cognitive regulation and global executive composite scores, r=0.72-0.76, p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Impaired CVR in children with AIS correlates with abnormal sleep indices even in the absence of OSA diagnosis. This can potentially result in cognitive difficulties, the majority of which remain not fully explained by stroke-related factors.

Study of screen-time and sleep in children aged 3-15 years in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India

Background: Sleep plays a vital role in good health, growth and well-being. Sleep disorders manifest with disturbance in both quantity and quality of sleep. The current generation of children is growing up surrounded by a world of electronic media through the smartphones and tablets of their parents. Previous studies have shown that sleep disorders are increasing in pediatric age group. This study aimed to assess screen-time, quality and quantity of sleep in children aged 3-15 years.Methods: Total 104 children were recruited for our cross-sectional study from Meenakshi Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kanchipuram. After obtaining consent, Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) was administered after collecting clinical history. Anthropometry and clinical examination was performed.Results: Total 8 out of 104 children (7.69%) in the study had poor quality sleep (PSQ Score≥5). 48 out of 104 children (46.1%) had deficient quantity of sleep as per American Academy for Sleep Medicine (AASM) recommendations. Children born with low birth weight had comparatively poorer quality of sleep (r=0.331 p=0.015). All 104 children had spent more screen time than permitted for their age.Conclusions: Quality and quantity of sleep were affected in children aged 3-15 years. This may be attributed to increased screen time but needs to be confirmed in larger studies.