Obstructive sleep apnea in children (OSA)
What is OSA?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea, also referred to as OSA is a disorder characterized by partial or complete narrowing of the pharyngeal airway during sleep. This leads to repeated episodes of airflow cessation and sleep disruption. The disorder occurs in adults and in children. OSA in children is a serious disorder that, untreated, may result in health problems as well as behavior and academic problems. To accurately diagnose OSA, a procedure called overnight polysomnography (PSG). Unfortunately, PSG is costly and may be available only at specialized centers; therefore referrals for PSG requires strong medical evidence in favor of OSA.
OSA has a genetic component
Recent studies show that OSA has a strong genetic predisposition and there are several genetic polymorphisms or SNPs strongly associated with this disease (Kalra et al., 2008). On the basis of these findings we developed a simple and highly reliable DNA test for OSA. Depending on the genetic polymorphism present, a child could be at:
LEVEL 1: Genetic risk for OSA not greater than for most people
LEVEL 2: Genetic risk for OSA 6 times greater than most people
LEVEL 3: Genetic risk for OSA 2 - 76 times greater than most people
While the test by itself is not intended to be diagnostic for any disease, test results showing a high degree of genetic risk (Levels 2 or 3) provide a strong rationale for further evaluation by a specialist, which could lead to appropriate treatment.
OSA in children is a serious disorder that, untreated, may result in health problems as well as behavior and academic problems. Although common, OSA often goes unrecognized, but it can usually be easily treated if detected. Symptoms of pediatric OSA should not be ignored.
More information on pediatric OSA on the American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA) website. To order the test, proceed to Orders page.
