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Antelmi E, Mogavero MP, Lanza G, Cartella SM, Ferini-Strambi L, Plazzi G, Ferri R, Tinazzi M. Sensory aspects of restless legs syndrome: Clinical, neurophysiological and neuroimaging prospectives. Sleep Med Rev 2024; 76:101949. [PMID: 38749362 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2024.101949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/26/2024]
Abstract
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a complex sensorimotor disorder, classified among the sleep-related movement disorders. Although sensory symptoms appear as key features of the disorder, they are still poorly characterized from a clinical perspective and conceptualized from a pathophysiological point of view. In this review, we aim to describe the clinical and functional substrates of RLS, focusing mainly on its sensory symptoms and on their neurophysiological and anatomical correlates. Knowledge of both subjective sensory symptoms and objective sensory signs are still controversial. Current data also indicate that the sensory component of RLS seems to be subserved by anomalies of sensorimotor integration and by mechanism of central sensitization. Overall, electrophysiological findings highlight the involvement of multiple generators in the pathogenesis of RLS, eventually resulting in an increased nervous system excitability and/or alterations in inhibition within the somatosensory and nociceptive pathways. Structural and functional neuroimaging data show the involvement of several crucial areas and circuits, among which the thalamus appears to play a pivotal role. A holistic approach looking at brain connectivity, structural or functional abnormalities, and their interplay with molecular vulnerability and neurotransmitter alterations is warranted to disentangle the complex framework of RLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Antelmi
- Neurology Unit, Parkinson Disease and Movement Disorders Division, DIMI Department of Engineering and Medicine of Innovation, University of Verona, Italy.
| | - Maria P Mogavero
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Sleep Disorders Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lanza
- Clinical Neurophysiology Research Unit, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy; University of Catania, Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandy M Cartella
- Movement Disorders Centre, Department of Neurology, Policlinico "Madonna Della Consolazione", Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Luigi Ferini-Strambi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Sleep Disorders Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- IRCCS, Istituto Delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ferri
- Clinical Neurophysiology Research Unit, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Neurology Unit, Parkinson Disease and Movement Disorders Division, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
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Cohen SP, Caterina MJ, Yang SY, Socolovsky M, Sommer C. Pain in the Context of Sensory Deafferentation. Anesthesiology 2024; 140:824-848. [PMID: 38470115 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000004881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Pain that accompanies deafferentation is one of the most mysterious and misunderstood medical conditions. Prevalence rates for the assorted conditions vary considerably but the most reliable estimates are greater than 50% for strokes involving the somatosensory system, brachial plexus avulsions, spinal cord injury, and limb amputation, with controversy surrounding the mechanistic contributions of deafferentation to ensuing neuropathic pain syndromes. Deafferentation pain has also been described for loss of other body parts (e.g., eyes and breasts) and may contribute to between 10% and upwards of 30% of neuropathic symptoms in peripheral neuropathies. There is no pathognomonic test or sign to identify deafferentation pain, and part of the controversy surrounding it stems from the prodigious challenges in differentiating cause and effect. For example, it is unknown whether cortical reorganization causes pain or is a byproduct of pathoanatomical changes accompanying injury, including pain. Similarly, ascertaining whether deafferentation contributes to neuropathic pain, or whether concomitant injury to nerve fibers transmitting pain and touch sensation leads to a deafferentation-like phenotype can be clinically difficult, although a detailed neurologic examination, functional imaging, and psychophysical tests may provide clues. Due in part to the concurrent morbidities, the physical, psychologic, and by extension socioeconomic costs of disorders associated with deafferentation are higher than for other chronic pain conditions. Treatment is symptom-based, with evidence supporting first-line antineuropathic medications such as gabapentinoids and antidepressants. Studies examining noninvasive neuromodulation and virtual reality have yielded mixed results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Cohen
- Departments of Anesthesiology, Neurology, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Anesthesiology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Michael J Caterina
- Neurosurgery Pain Research Institute and Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Su-Yin Yang
- Psychology Service, Woodlands Health, and Adjunct Faculty, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Singapore
| | - Mariano Socolovsky
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Pagani-Estévez GL, Holland MT, Tippmann-Peikert M, Benarroch EE, Silber MH, Carvalho DZ. Potential therapeutic benefit of spinal cord stimulation in restless legs syndrome: scoping review and mechanistic considerations. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2023; 24:S18-S23. [PMID: 37833049 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a prevalent sensorimotor disorder that can dramatically impair sleep quality, daytime function, and quality of life. Although many patients benefit from standard pharmacological therapy, some patients suffer from insufficient treatment response or medication intolerance. Novel treatment approaches are therefore necessary. OBJECTIVE Given the overlap between RLS and pain syndromes in both pathophysiological mechanisms and certain treatment options, we aimed to perform a scoping review of the available evidence on spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for RLS and discuss potential mechanistic implications. METHODS We identified a total of 16 cases of patients with RLS who underwent SCS, all from case reports or case series. DISCUSSION The published evidence is insufficient to assess SCS efficacy in patients with RLS, but SCS remains a promising investigational therapy in RLS on the basis of its potential mitigatory effects in the central hyperexcitability of the sensorimotor cortex through neuromodulation of spinal, subcortical, and cortical areas. A call for further research in this field is presented, with suggestions for future directions and trial designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel L Pagani-Estévez
- Department of Interventional and Surgical Pain Management, Cincinnati Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States
| | - Marshall T Holland
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
| | - Maja Tippmann-Peikert
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Center for Sleep Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | | | - Michael H Silber
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Center for Sleep Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Diego Z Carvalho
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Center for Sleep Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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van der Veen S, Caviness JN, Dreissen YE, Ganos C, Ibrahim A, Koelman JH, Stefani A, Tijssen MA. Myoclonus and other jerky movement disorders. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2022; 7:285-316. [PMID: 36324989 PMCID: PMC9619152 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Myoclonus and other jerky movements form a large heterogeneous group of disorders. Clinical neurophysiology studies can have an important contribution to support diagnosis but also to gain insight in the pathophysiology of different kind of jerks. This review focuses on myoclonus, tics, startle disorders, restless legs syndrome, and periodic leg movements during sleep. Myoclonus is defined as brief, shock-like movements, and subtypes can be classified based the anatomical origin. Both the clinical phenotype and the neurophysiological tests support this classification: cortical, cortical-subcortical, subcortical/non-segmental, segmental, peripheral, and functional jerks. The most important techniques used are polymyography and the combination of electromyography-electroencephalography focused on jerk-locked back-averaging, cortico-muscular coherence, and the Bereitschaftspotential. Clinically, the differential diagnosis of myoclonus includes tics, and this diagnosis is mainly based on the history with premonitory urges and the ability to suppress the tic. Electrophysiological tests are mainly applied in a research setting and include the Bereitschaftspotential, local field potentials, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and pre-pulse inhibition. Jerks due to a startling stimulus form the group of startle syndromes. This group includes disorders with an exaggerated startle reflex, such as hyperekplexia and stiff person syndrome, but also neuropsychiatric and stimulus-induced disorders. For these disorders polymyography combined with a startling stimulus can be useful to determine the pattern of muscle activation and thus the diagnosis. Assessment of symptoms in restless legs syndrome and periodic leg movements during sleep can be performed with different validated scoring criteria with the help of electromyography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sterre van der Veen
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - John N. Caviness
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Movement Neurophysiology Laboratory, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Yasmine E.M. Dreissen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christos Ganos
- Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Abubaker Ibrahim
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Johannes H.T.M. Koelman
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ambra Stefani
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Marina A.J. Tijssen
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands,Corresponding author at: Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Raicher I, Ravagnani LHC, Correa SG, Dobo C, Mangueira CLP, Macarenco RSES. Investigation of nerve fibers in the skin by biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution to diagnosis of small-fiber neuropathy. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2022; 20:eMD8044. [PMID: 35830153 PMCID: PMC9262281 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2022md8044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin biopsy with investigation of small-diameter nerve fibers in human epidermis and dermis has been proven to be a useful method for confirming small-fiber neuropathy. In medical practice, small-fiber neuropathy is increasingly recognized as a leading cause of neuropathic pain. It is a prevalent complaint in medical offices, brought by patients often as a “painful burning sensation”. The prevalence of neuropathic pain is high in small-fiber neuropathies of different etiologies, especially in the elderly; 7% of population in this age group present peripheral neuropathy. Pain and paresthesia are symptoms which might cause disability and impair quality of life of patients. The early detection of small-fiber neuropathy can contribute to reducing unhealthy lifestyles, associated to higher incidence of the disease.
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Jiménez-Jiménez FJ, Alonso-Navarro H, García-Martín E, Agúndez JAG. Association between restless legs syndrome and peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:2423-2442. [PMID: 33772991 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The coexistence of peripheral neuropathy (PN) and restless legs syndrome (RLS) or Willis-Ekbom disease is relatively frequent, but its prevalence has shown a high variability across studies. In addition, several reports have shown data suggesting the presence of PN in patients with idiopathic RLS. METHODS A search was undertaken using the PubMed, Embase and Web of Science Databases, from 1966 to 6 December 2020, crossing the search term 'restless legs syndrome' with 'neuropathy', 'polyneuropathy' (PNP) and 'peripheral neuropathy', and the references of interest for this topic were identified; a meta-analysis was performed, according to PRISMA guidelines, and a calculation of pooled prevalences, where appropriate, was made using standard methods. RESULTS Restless legs syndrome has been reported in 5.2%-53.7% of patients with PN (average 21.5%; 95% confidence interval 18.6%-24.5%), and PN has been reported in 0%-87.5% of patients with RLS (average 41.8%; 95% confidence interval 39.9%-43.6%), both being significantly more frequent than in controls. The heterogeneity across studies could be due to differences in the diagnostic criteria used for both RLS and PN. RLS is a frequent clinical complaint in patients with PN of different aetiologies, mainly diabetic PN, uraemic PNP, familial amyloid PNP, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and chronic dysimmune inflammatory PNP. Recent neurophysiological findings suggest the presence of small sensory fibre loss in patients diagnosed with idiopathic RLS, but it remains to be determined whether RLS associated with small sensory fibre loss and idiopathic RLS are different clinical entities. CONCLUSIONS Future studies including clinical and neurophysiological assessment and skin biopsy involving a large series of patients with PN and RLS are needed for a better understanding of the association between these two entities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elena García-Martín
- UNEx, ARADyAL Instituto de Salud Carlos III, University Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José A G Agúndez
- UNEx, ARADyAL Instituto de Salud Carlos III, University Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers, Cáceres, Spain
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Ng Wing Tin S, Zouari HG, Wahab A, Sène D, Lefaucheur JP. Characterization of Neuropathic Pain in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome with Respect to Neurophysiological Evidence of Small-Fiber Neuropathy. PAIN MEDICINE 2018; 20:979-987. [DOI: 10.1093/pm/pny183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Ng Wing Tin
- EA 4391, Faculté de Médecine de Créteil, Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
- Service de Physiologie, Explorations Fonctionnelles et Médecine du Sport, Hôpital Avicenne, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Bobigny, France
- EA 2363, UFR SMBH, Université Paris 13, Bobigny, France
| | - Hela G Zouari
- EA 4391, Faculté de Médecine de Créteil, Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
- Service d’Explorations Fonctionnelles, CHU Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisie
| | - Abir Wahab
- EA 4391, Faculté de Médecine de Créteil, Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
- Service de Neurologie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France
| | - Damien Sène
- Département de Médecine Interne 2, Hôpital Lariboisière, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris VII, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Lefaucheur
- EA 4391, Faculté de Médecine de Créteil, Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
- Service de Physiologie – Explorations Fonctionnelles, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France
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Fila M, Stasiołek M, Markiewicz A, Bogucki A. Functional Evaluation of Small Fiber Pathways in Primary Restless Legs Syndrome: Aδ Pathway Study. J Clin Sleep Med 2017; 13:1455-1462. [PMID: 29117885 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.6848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to provide a neurophysiological evaluation of the function of large and small fibers, particularly the peripheral part of the thermonociceptive Aδ pathway in patients with primary restless legs syndrome (RLS). METHODS The main evaluation was based on an analysis of the parameters of laser-evoked potentials (LEPs), N2 and P2 components, and an assessment of thermonociceptive thresholds (pain thresholds; PThs). Routine nerve conduction studies (NCS) were also performed. RESULTS No essential or important differences of clinical significance were observed in the parameters of large fiber conduction between the study and the control groups. Prolonged latencies of N2 and P2 potentials were obtained during foot stimulation in patients with primary RLS when compared to controls (N2, P2-lower right limb, and N2-lower left limb). We also observed higher amplitudes of LEPs evaluated as P2 and N2-P2 potentials in patients with primary RLS in comparison with the control group. Significantly higher (normal distribution P < .05) thermonociceptive thresholds in both lower and upper limbs were found in the RLS group. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the analysis of LEPs and their comparison with the respective results from the control group, the presence of functional disability of the thermonociceptive Aδ pathway was confirmed in patients with primary RLS. The results indicated the presence of changes in the conduction of small fiber pathways in the pathomechanism of idiopathic RLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Fila
- Clinical Neurophysiology Unit, Neurology Department, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital - Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Mariusz Stasiołek
- Neurology Department, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital - Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Adam Markiewicz
- Neurology Department, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital - Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Andrzej Bogucki
- Department of Extrapyramidal Diseases, Central University Hospital, Medical University of Lodz, Poland
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Lanza G, Bachmann CG, Ghorayeb I, Wang Y, Ferri R, Paulus W. Central and peripheral nervous system excitability in restless legs syndrome. Sleep Med 2017; 31:49-60. [PMID: 27745789 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurophysiological techniques have been applied in restless legs syndrome (RLS) to obtain direct and indirect measures of central and peripheral nervous system excitability, as well as to probe different neurotransmission pathways. Data converge on the hypothesis that, from a pure electrophysiological perspective, RLS should be regarded as a complex sensorimotor disorder in which cortical, subcortical, spinal cord, and peripheral nerve generators are all involved in a network disorder, resulting in an enhanced excitability and/or decreased inhibition. Although the spinal component may have dominated in neurophysiological assessment, possibly because of better accessibility compared to the brainstem or cerebral components of a hypothetical dysfunction of the diencephalic A11 area, multiple mechanisms, such as reduced central inhibition and abnormal peripheral nerve function, contribute to the pathogenesis of RLS similarly to some chronic pain conditions. Dopamine transmission dysfunction, either primary or triggered by low iron and ferritin concentrations, may also bridge the gap between RLS and chronic pain entities. Further support of disturbed central and peripheral excitability in RLS is provided by the effectiveness of nonpharmacological tools, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation, in transiently modulating neural excitability, thereby extending the therapeutic repertoire. Understanding the complex interaction of central and peripheral neuronal circuits in generating the symptoms of RLS is mandatory for a better refinement of its therapeutic support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lanza
- Sleep Research Center, I.R.C.C.S. "Oasi Maria SS.", Troina, Italy.
| | | | - Imad Ghorayeb
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; CNRS, INCIA, CNRS UMR 5287, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Yuping Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Raffale Ferri
- Sleep Research Center, I.R.C.C.S. "Oasi Maria SS.", Troina, Italy
| | - Walter Paulus
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Center, Georg August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Trenkwalder C, Allen R, Högl B, Paulus W, Winkelmann J. Restless legs syndrome associated with major diseases: A systematic review and new concept. Neurology 2016; 86:1336-1343. [PMID: 26944272 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000002542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent publications on both the genetics and environmental factors of restless legs syndrome (RLS) defined as a clinical disorder suggest that overlapping genetic risk factors may play a role in primary (idiopathic) and secondary (symptomatic) RLS. Following a systematic literature search of RLS associated with comorbidities, we identified an increased prevalence of RLS only in iron deficiency and kidney disease. In cardiovascular disease, arterial hypertension, diabetes, migraine, and Parkinson disease, the methodology of studies was poor, but an association might be possible. There is insufficient evidence for conditions such as anemia (without iron deficiency), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, multiple sclerosis, headache, stroke, narcolepsy, and ataxias. Based on possible gene-microenvironmental interaction, the classifications primary and secondary RLS may suggest an inappropriate causal relation. We recognize that in some conditions, treatment of the underlying disease should be achieved as far as possible to reduce or eliminate RLS symptoms. RLS might be seen as a continuous spectrum with a major genetic contribution at one end and a major environmental or comorbid disease contribution at the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Trenkwalder
- From Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders (C.T.), Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Kassel; Departments of Neurosurgery (C.T.) and Clinical Neurophysiology (W.P.), University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology (R.A.), The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.H.), Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria; Institute for Neurogenomic (J.W.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg; Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik (J.W.), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) (J.W.), Munich, Germany.
| | - Richard Allen
- From Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders (C.T.), Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Kassel; Departments of Neurosurgery (C.T.) and Clinical Neurophysiology (W.P.), University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology (R.A.), The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.H.), Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria; Institute for Neurogenomic (J.W.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg; Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik (J.W.), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) (J.W.), Munich, Germany
| | - Birgit Högl
- From Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders (C.T.), Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Kassel; Departments of Neurosurgery (C.T.) and Clinical Neurophysiology (W.P.), University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology (R.A.), The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.H.), Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria; Institute for Neurogenomic (J.W.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg; Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik (J.W.), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) (J.W.), Munich, Germany
| | - Walter Paulus
- From Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders (C.T.), Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Kassel; Departments of Neurosurgery (C.T.) and Clinical Neurophysiology (W.P.), University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology (R.A.), The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.H.), Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria; Institute for Neurogenomic (J.W.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg; Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik (J.W.), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) (J.W.), Munich, Germany
| | - Juliane Winkelmann
- From Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders (C.T.), Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Kassel; Departments of Neurosurgery (C.T.) and Clinical Neurophysiology (W.P.), University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurology (R.A.), The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.H.), Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria; Institute for Neurogenomic (J.W.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg; Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik (J.W.), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) (J.W.), Munich, Germany.
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11
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Ng Wing Tin S, Planté-Bordeneuve V, Salhi H, Goujon C, Damy T, Lefaucheur JP. Characterization of Pain in Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2015; 16:1106-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2015.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 06/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Chokroverty S. Differential Diagnoses of Restless Legs Syndrome/Willis-Ekbom Disease. Sleep Med Clin 2015; 10:249-62, xii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2015.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Bastia JK, Bhoi SK, Kalita J, Misra UK. Neuropathy in a cohort of restless leg syndrome patients. J Clin Neurosci 2015; 22:1314-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2015.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Revised: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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14
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Goulart LI, Delgado Rodrigues RN, Prieto Peres MF. Restless Legs Syndrome and Pain Disorders: What’s in common? Curr Pain Headache Rep 2014; 18:461. [DOI: 10.1007/s11916-014-0461-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This narrative review describes the differential diagnosis of restless legs syndrome, and provides an overview of the evidence for the associations between RLS and potential comorbidities. Secondary causes of RLS and the characteristics of pediatric RLS are also discussed. Finally, management strategies for RLS are summarized. METHODS The review began with a comprehensive PubMed search for 'restless legs syndrome/Willis-Ekbom disease' in combination with the following: anxiety, arthritis, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, cardiac, cardiovascular disease, comorbidities, depression, end-stage renal disease, erectile dysfunction, fibromyalgia, insomnia, kidney disease, liver disease, migraine, mood disorder, multiple sclerosis, narcolepsy, neuropathy, obesity, pain, Parkinson's disease, polyneuropathy, pregnancy, psychiatric disorder, sleep disorder, somatoform pain disorder, and uremia. Additional papers were identified by reviewing the reference lists of retrieved publications. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Although clinical diagnosis of RLS can be straightforward, diagnostic challenges may arise when patients present with comorbid conditions. Comorbidities of RLS include insomnia, depressive and anxiety disorders, and pain disorders. Differential diagnosis is particularly important, as some of the medications used to treat insomnia and depression may exacerbate RLS symptoms. Appropriate diagnosis and management of RLS symptoms may benefit patient well-being and, in some cases, may lessen comorbid disease burden. Therefore, it is important that physicians are aware of the presence of RLS when treating patients with conditions that commonly co-occur with the disorder.
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Gupta R, Ahmad S, Dhar M, Goel D, Lahan V. Clinical presentation of restless legs syndrome: Does the gender matter? Sleep Biol Rhythms 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/sbr.12059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Gupta
- Department of Psychiatry; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
- Department of Sleep Clinic; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
| | - Sohaib Ahmad
- Department of Medicine; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
| | - Minakshi Dhar
- Department of Medicine; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
| | - Deepak Goel
- Department of Sleep Clinic; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
- Department of Neurology; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
| | - Vivekananda Lahan
- Department of Psychiatry; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
- Department of Sleep Clinic; Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dehradun India
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Stehlik R, Ulfberg J, Hedner J, Grote L. High prevalence of restless legs syndrome among women with multi-site pain: a population-based study in Dalarna, Sweden. Eur J Pain 2014; 18:1402-9. [PMID: 24700622 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The chronic pain (CP) and chronic multi-site pain (CMP) condition is a highly prevalent health problem. Several studies have reported a high (31-64%) prevalence of co-morbid restless legs syndrome (RLS) in patients with fibromyalgia, one specifically defined form of chronic widespread pain. The current study explored the association between CMP and RLS. METHOD The study included 4040 respondents to a postal questionnaire sent to 10,000 women in the age range of 18-64 years and randomly selected from the general population. Complete questionnaire data on type (acute/chronic), degree (mild to severe) and spreading (0-5 body zones) of pain, as well as RLS symptoms (validated questionnaire), were obtained from 3060 subjects. Information on lifestyle, anthropometrics, co-morbidities and medication was collected. RESULTS RLS prevalence increased from 9.6% in subjects with no report of pain to 23,9%, 26.4%, 39.2%, 44.9% and 54.8% in those reporting one, two, three, four and five pain areas, respectively (p < 0.001). Further, RLS prevalence increased from 9.6% (no pain) to 27.9%, 37.9% and 42.4% in subjects with mild, moderate and severe chronic pain (p < 0.001). Multi-site pain, pain localized in the leg, extended pain duration and co-morbid psychiatric disorder were all independently associated with a RLS diagnosis in a multiple regression analysis. CONCLUSION The prevalence of RLS increased progressively with pain severity and even more sharply with the degree of pain spreading in women recruited from the general population. Both acute and chronic pain was associated with RLS-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Stehlik
- Pain Center, Skonvik Medical Rehabilitation Clinic, Säter, Sweden; Center for Sleep and Vigilance Disorders, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
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Response to Letter to the Editor. Pain 2014; 155:200-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2013.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 09/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Winkelman JW, Gagnon A, Clair AG. Sensory symptoms in restless legs syndrome: the enigma of pain. Sleep Med 2013; 14:934-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2013.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Revised: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Restless legs syndrome in sensory axonal neuropathy: A case-control study. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2013; 169:228-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2012.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Revised: 11/13/2011] [Accepted: 02/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Painful polyneuropathy associated with restless legs syndrome. Clinical features and sensory profile. Sleep Med 2013; 14:79-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2012.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Mellgren SI, Nolano M, Sommer C. The cutaneous nerve biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2013; 115:171-188. [PMID: 23931780 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52902-2.00010-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Skin biopsy with a 3mm disposable circular punch is easy to perform and allows, after proper processing, the visualization of epidermal, dermal, and sweat gland nerve fibers. A technique of sampling the epidermis alone by applying a suction capsule, the "blister" technique, has also been developed. It is most common to stain immunohistochemically for the pan-axonal marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5), an ubiquitin C-terminal hydroxylase. The sections are then observed and analyzed with bright-field microscopy or with indirect immunofluorescence with or without confocal microscopy. Most studies report quantification of intraepidermal nerve fiber density displayed in bright-field microscopy. Normative values have been established, particularly from the distal part of the leg, 10cm above the external malleolus. In diabetes mellitus early degeneration of intraepidermal nerve fibers is induced and there is slower regeneration even when there is no evidence of neuropathy. Skin biopsy is of particular value in the diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy when nerve conduction studies are normal. It may also be repeated in order to study the progressive nature of the disease and also has the potential of studying regeneration of nerve fibers and thus the effects of treatment. Inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies may also involve loss of small-diameter nerve fibers and IgM deposits in dermal myelinated nerve fibers in anti-MAG neuropathy. In some cases the presence of vasculitis in skin may indicate a nonsystemic vasculitic neuropathy and in HIV neuropathy intraepidermal nerve fiber density is reduced in a length-dependent manner. In several hereditary neuropathies intraepidermal nerve fiber density may be reduced but other abnormalities can also be demonstrated in dermal myelinated fibers. Some small swellings and varicosities may be present in the distal leg skin biopsy of healthy individuals but large axonal swellings are considered as evidence of a pathological process affecting the normal structure of nerves. The indirect immunofluorescence technique with confocal microscopy provides the opportunity to study the complex structure of sensory receptors and cutaneous myelinated fibers and the innervation of sweat glands, arrector pilorum muscles, and vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svein Ivar Mellgren
- Department of Clinical Medicine - Neurology, University of Tromsø and University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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Schuman CC, Attarian HP. Integrating Sleep Management into Clinical Practice. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2012; 19:65-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s10880-012-9297-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Sieminski M, Bilinska M, Nyka WM. Increased Frequency of Restless Legs Syndrome in Myasthenia Gravis. Eur Neurol 2012; 68:166-70. [DOI: 10.1159/000339485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Jack MM, Ryals JM, Wright DE. Characterisation of glyoxalase I in a streptozocin-induced mouse model of diabetes with painful and insensate neuropathy. Diabetologia 2011; 54:2174-82. [PMID: 21633909 PMCID: PMC3762253 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-011-2196-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes; however, the mechanisms producing positive or negative symptoms are not well understood. The enzyme glyoxalase I (GLO1) detoxifies reactive dicarbonyls that form AGEs and may affect the way sensory neurons respond to heightened AGE levels in DN. We hypothesised that differential GLO1 levels in sensory neurons may lead to differences in AGE formation and modulate the phenotype of DN. METHODS Inbred strains of mice were used to assess the variability of Glo1 expression by quantitative RT-PCR. Non-diabetic C57BL/6 mice were used to characterise the distribution of GLO1 in neural tissues by immunofluorescence. Behavioural assessments were conducted in diabetic A/J and C57BL/6 mice to determine mechanical sensitivity, and GLO1 abundance was determined by western blot. RESULTS GLO1 immunoreactivity was found throughout the nervous system, but selectively in small, unmyelinated peptidergic dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons that are involved in pain transmission. GLO1 protein was present at various levels in DRG from different inbred mice strains. Diabetic A/J and C57BL/6 mice, two mouse strains with different levels of GLO1, displayed dramatically different behavioural responses to mechanical stimuli. Diabetic C57BL/6 mice also had a reduced abundance of GLO1 following diabetes induction. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION These findings reveal that the abundance of GLO1 varies between different murine strains and within different sensory neuron populations. These differences could lead to different responses of sensory neurons to the toxic effects of hyperglycaemia and reactive dicarbonyls associated with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Jack
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
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Gemignani F. Can restless legs syndrome be generated by interacting central and peripheral abnormal inputs? Sleep Med 2010; 11:503-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2010.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2010] [Accepted: 03/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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