11 Questions
What is the primary purpose of the Multiple Sleep Latency Test?
To confirm suspected narcolepsy
What is the minimum total sleep time required the night before the MSLT?
360 minutes
What is the duration of each nap trial in the MSLT?
20 minutes
What is recommended for the patient to do at least one hour before the first trial?
Take a light breakfast
What is the definition of a sleep-onset rapid eye movement (REM) period in the MSLT?
REM sleep within 15 minutes of clock time following sleep onset
What is the patient required to wear during the nap trial?
Street clothes
A patient is suspected to have adult OSA. What symptom would support this diagnosis?
Complaints of insomnia symptoms
What is a possible indicator of adult OSA reported by a bed partner?
Habitual snoring
Which of the following medical conditions is associated with adult OSA?
Hypertension
What is the minimum number of obstructive respiratory events per hour of sleep required for an adult OSA diagnosis?
5
What is an alternative diagnostic criterion for adult OSA?
> 15 predominantly obstructive respiratory events per hour of sleep
Study Notes
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
- Developed in 1977 by Dr. Mary Carskadon to diagnose narcolepsy
- Also known as a daytime nap study
Purpose
- Confirmation of suspected narcolepsy (standard)
- To help differentiate idiopathic hypersomnia from narcolepsy (optional)
Room Settings
- Dark and quiet sleep environment
- Patient lies in bed during nap trial
- Patient wears street clothes
- No smoking or vigorous activity before nap opportunities
Preparation
- Light breakfast recommended at least one hour before the first trial
- Light lunch recommended immediately after the termination of the second noon trial
Nap Trial
- EEG, EOG, EMG monitoring required
- Nap trial begins when lights are turned off
- Patient has a maximum of 20 minutes to fall asleep
- If patient sleeps within 20 minutes, they will be woken after 15 minutes of sleeping
- If patient does not sleep within 20 minutes, trial ends and breaks until next nap trial begins
Diagnostic Criteria for Adult OSA
- Adult OSA is diagnosed in patients with one or more of the following symptoms: sleepiness, non-restorative sleep, fatigue, or insomnia symptoms
- Waking with breath holding, gasping, or choking are also indicative of Adult OSA
- Reports of habitual snoring, breathing interruptions, or both during sleep by a bed partner or others can also lead to a diagnosis
Associated Conditions
- Diagnosis of hypertension increases the risk of Adult OSA
- Mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, are associated with Adult OSA
- Cognitive dysfunction is also linked to Adult OSA
- Presence of coronary artery disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, or type 2 diabetes can contribute to a diagnosis of Adult OSA
Polysomnography (PSG) and Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT)
- PSG or HSAT demonstrates ≥ 5 obstructive respiratory events per hour of sleep, indicating Adult OSA
- PSG or HSAT demonstrates > 15 predominantly obstructive respiratory events per hour of sleep, also indicative of Adult OSA
Test your knowledge of the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), a diagnostic tool for narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. Learn about its purpose, room settings, and preparation.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
