Effect of Three Hypopnea Scoring Criteria on OSA Prevalence and Associated Comorbidities in the General Population

Identifying Risk of Postoperative Cardiorespiratory Complications in OSA

BACKGROUND

Patients with OSA are at increased risk of postoperative cardiorespiratory complications and death. Attempts to stratify this risk have been inadequate, and predictors from large, well-characterized cohort studies are needed.

RESEARCH QUESTION

What is the relationship between OSA severity, defined by various polysomnography-derived metrics, and risk of postoperative cardiorespiratory complications or death, and which metrics best identify such risk?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this cohort study, 6,770 consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic polysomnography for possible OSA and a procedure involving general anesthesia within a period of 2 years before and at least 5 years after polysomnography. Participants were identified by linking polysomnography and health databases. Relationships between OSA severity measures and the composite primary outcome of cardiorespiratory complications or death within 30 days of hospital discharge were investigated using univariable and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

The primary outcome was observed in 5.3% (n = 361) of the cohort. Although univariable analysis showed strong dose-response relationships between this outcome and multiple OSA severity measures, multivariable analysis showed its independent predictors were: age older than 65 years (OR, 2.67 [95% CI, 2.03-3.52]; P < .0001), age 55.1 to 65 years (OR, 1.47 [95% CI, 1.09-1.98]; P = .0111), time between polysomnography and procedure of ≥ 5 years (OR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.02-1.70]; P = .0331), BMI of ≥ 35 kg/m2 (OR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.13-1.82]; P = .0032), presence of known cardiorespiratory risk factor (OR, 1.63 [95% CI, 1.29-2.06]; P < .0001), > 4.7% of sleep time at an oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry of < 90% (T90; OR, 1.91 [95% CI, 1.51-2.42]; P < .0001), and cardiothoracic procedures (OR, 7.95 [95% CI, 5.71-11.08]; P < .0001). For noncardiothoracic procedures, age, BMI, presence of known cardiorespiratory risk factor, and percentage of sleep time at an oxygen saturation of < 90% remained the significant predictors, and a risk score based on their ORs was predictive of outcome (area under receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.7 [95% CI, 0.64-0.75]).

INTERPRETATION

These findings provide a basis for better identifying high-risk patients with OSA and determining appropriate postoperative care.

Are scoring respiratory effort-related arousals worth the effort? --A study comparing outcomes between 4 % vs 3 % hypopnea scoring rules

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The respiratory effort-related arousal (RERA) has been combined with apneas and hypopneas into the respiratory disturbance index (RDI). RERAs are characterized by ≥ 10 s of increasing upper airway effort terminating in arousal without meeting hypopnea criteria. The recent change to hypopnea definitions now includes a ≥30 % reduction in airflow for 10 s with EITHER a 3 % oxygen desaturation OR an arousal. Consequently, many events previously categorized as RERAs will now be included in the 3 % hypopneas, likely reducing the number of events scored as RERAs. We hypothesized that the 3 % apnea-hypopnea index (3%AHI) would approximate the 4%RDI, with the number of 3 % RERAs being negligible.

RESEARCH QUESTION

How does the transition from the 4 % to the 3 % hypopnea rules impact the significance of RERAs in clinical practice, and how we should relate the AHI and RDI using the different hypopnea rules?

METHODS

We prospectively collected 76 consecutive polysomnography results in 4 adult age groups. We re-scored the respiratory events utilizing both the 3 % and the 4 % hypopnea rules and compared the outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 76 diagnostic studies (mean age 47.5 years, males 47.4 %), the 3 % RERA index [0.8 (0.0, 3.1)] [median (Q1, Q3)] was significantly lower than the 4 % RERA index [3.5 (1.0, 7.3)]. The 3%AHI was 3.07 ± 9.23 (mean ± SD) higher than the 4%RDI (p = 0.005). The 3%AHI was 8.63 ± 8.86 higher than the 4%AHI in all age groups (p < 0.001). This was mainly due to an increased hypopnea index (+8.51 ± 9.03, p < 0.001). In patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the 3%RERA contributes 4.3 % to the 3%RDI, while the 4%RERA contributes 27.7 % to the 4%RDI.

INTERPRETATIONS

Both 3%RDI and 3%AHI are higher than the 4%RDI, primarily due to identification of more hypopnea events, resulting in more patients being classified as having OSA. This change in criteria complicates the comparison of hypopnea and RERA contributions between sleep studies scored using the different hypopnea rules.

Validation of Trøndelag Apnoea Score Proxy for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in the General Population of Norway: The HUNT Study

The aim was to validate a new seven-item "TASC" (Trøndelag Apnoea Score) proxy for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) against polysomnography in the general population. Objectives included validation against different polysomnographic criteria, stratification by age and gender, and estimation of OSA prevalence. From the fourth wave of the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT4), 1,201 participants were randomly invited to a substudy focusing on sleep and headaches, of whom 232 accepted and 84 (64% women, mean age 55.0 years, and standard deviation 11.5 years) underwent polysomnography. The TASC proxy sums seven binary items for snoring, observed breathing pauses, restricted daytime activities, hypertension, body mass index (≥30 kg/m2), age (≥50 years), and gender (male). A single night of ambulatory (home) polysomnography was analysed using both the recommended and optional hypopnoea criteria of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). We found 65% sensitivity and 87% specificity (Cohen's κ = 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.34-0.72) for TASC ≥ 3 against AHI ≥ 15 (recommended AASM criteria). Validity was similar against AHI ≥ 30 but lower against AHI ≥ 5 and against the optional AASM criteria. Sensitivity and overall validity were higher among men and those above 50 years of age. The prevalence of an apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) of at least 5, 15, or 30 using the recommended (and optional) AASM criteria was 73% (46%), 37% (18%), or 15% (5%). A seven-item TASC proxy for OSA showed good validity and may be useful in screening and epidemiological settings. Sensitivity, specificity, and validity vary considerably by cut-off, by polysomnographic scoring criteria, and by gender and age strata.

The association of weight loss from anti-obesity medications or bariatric surgery and apnea-hypopnea index in obstructive sleep apnea

INTRODUCTION

Weight loss is recommended for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and overweight or obesity, but there is limited evidence to guide the selection of weight management strategies for patients who do not lose sufficient weight with diet and lifestyle changes. We evaluated the relationship between weight loss caused by pharmacologic or surgical interventions and subsequent improvement in OSA by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI).

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and EMBASE were searched for randomized trials comparing pharmacologic or surgical obesity interventions to usual care, placebo, or no treatment in adults with OSA. The association between percentage weight loss and AHI change between randomization and last follow-up was evaluated using meta-regression.

PROSPERO

CRD42022378853.

RESULTS

Ten eligible trials (n = 854 patients) were included. Four (n = 211) assessed bariatric surgery, and 6 (n = 643) assessed pharmacologic interventions over a median follow-up of 13 months (interquartile range 6-26 months). The linear best estimate of the change in AHI is 0.45 events per hour (95% Confidence Interval 0.18 to 0.73 events per hour) for every 1% body weight lost.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight loss caused by medication or surgery caused a proportionate improvement of the AHI. Providers could consider extrapolating from this relationship when advising patients of the expected effects of other pharmacologic or surgical interventions without direct evidence in OSA.

Loss of testosterone induces postprandial insulin resistance and increases the expression of the hepatic antioxidant flavin-containing monooxygenases in mice exposed to intermittent hypoxia

AIM

We tested the hypothesis that low testosterone alters the effects of intermittent hypoxia (IH) on glucose homeostasis, hepatic oxidative stress, and transcriptomic profile in male mice.

METHODS

We used sham-operated or orchiectomized (ORX) mice exposed to normoxia (Nx) or IH for 2 weeks. We performed fasting insulin and glucose tolerance tests and assessed fasting and postprandial insulin resistance with the HOMA-IR. The activity of hepatic prooxidant (NADPH oxidase-NOX), antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase-SOD, Cat, GPx), lipid peroxidation (MDA concentration), and the total concentration of glutathione (GSH) were measured under postprandial conditions. mRNA sequencing and pathway enrichment analyses were used to identify hepatic genes underlying the interactions between IH and testosterone.

RESULTS

In Sham mice, IH improves fasting insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, while there are no effects of IH in ORX mice. In ORX mice, IH induces postprandial hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and a prooxidant profile of enzyme activity (low SOD activity) without altering hepatic MDA and GSH content. ORX and IH altered the expression of genes involved in oxidoreductase activities, cytochromes-dependent pathways, and glutathione metabolism. Among the genes upregulated in ORX-IH mice, the flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMO) are particularly relevant since these are potent hepatic antioxidants that could help prevent overt oxidative stress in ORX-IH mice.

CONCLUSION

Low levels of testosterone in male mice exposed to IH induce post-prandial hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance and determine the mechanisms by which the liver handles IH-induced oxidative stress.

Large variability in definitions of sleep apnea indices used in clinical studies

STUDY OBJECTIVES

We explored the variability of sleep apnea indices and definitions of obstructive sleep apnea in clinical studies of continuous positive airway pressure.

METHODS

In a systematic review of the long-term clinical effects of continuous positive airway pressure, we noted variability across studies in how sleep apnea was defined. We, thus, sought to quantify the heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Across 57 comparative studies of long-term clinical outcomes of continuous positive airway pressure, only 40% fully and explicitly reported their definitions of apnea and hypopnea. Most studies defined apnea as 100% airflow cessation, but a minority used 90% or even down to 75% thresholds. Almost half of the studies defined hypopnea as ≥ 50% airflow cessation, but the majority used 30% or even 25% thresholds. Similarly, about half of the studies used a 4% desaturation threshold to define oxygen desaturation and about half used a 3% threshold, with 2 studies using both thresholds for different purposes. Randomized trials were no more consistent or better-reported than observational studies. Studies that cited published criteria generally reported definitions that were different from the cited criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

The criteria used to define sleep apnea indices (apnea, hypopnea, and oxygen desaturation) were highly variable, even among studies stating that definitions were based on the same standard criteria. It was often difficult to discern the actual criteria used. The great variability across studies and lack of transparency about their sleep study methods hampers the interpretability and utility of the studies and calls into question whether studies are generalizable from one setting to another.

CITATION

Balk EM, Adam GP, D'Ambrosio CM. Large variability in definitions of sleep apnea indices used in clinical studies. J Clin Sleep Med. 2024;20(3):461-468.

Prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the Young Adult Population: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is suggested to differ according to different age groups. While its prevalence has been extensively investigated among middle-aged and old individuals, very few studies have summarized its prevalence among young adults. The present study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of OSA prevalence among healthy adults aged 18-30 years in the general population.

METHODS

A search of Embase, Medline, and Web of Science databases for articles reporting the prevalence of OSA among young adults confirmed by objective diagnostic methods was completed by two reviewers. Studies identified and included in the review were summarized qualitatively. Additionally, a meta-analysis of prevalence rates was conducted using a random effects model.

RESULTS

11 articles out of 5898 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The diagnostic thresholds, scoring criteria, and the type of used device varied substantially among all the studies. We found that the pooled prevalence of OSA among young adults was 16% (CI 95%, 8-29%, I2 = 92%, τ2 = 1.47).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of OSA among young adults was found to be ~16%. However, a few factors diverged prevalence between the studies, such as hypopnea definition, AHI threshold, and type of device. Most of the studies included examined healthy volunteers, suggesting that the disease burden may be underestimated. Findings from our review highlight the need to include OSA-related assessment and intervention in the overall health care of young adults. By early detection and offered treatment, further complications related to comorbidities may be omitted.

Factors Associated with Persistent Obstructive Sleep Apnea After Bariatric Surgery: A Narrative Review

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among the bariatric surgery population is estimated to be 45-70%. However, weight loss obtained by bariatric surgery is not always associated with full remission of OSA, suggesting that other confounding factors are present. This article aims to review the current literature, focusing on factors that could predict the persistence of OSA after bariatric surgery. For this purpose, relevant studies of more than 50 patients that assessed pre- and post-operative presence and severity of OSA detected by poly(somno)graphy (PG/PSG) in bariatric populations were collected. Six retrospective and prospective studies were evaluated that included 1302 OSA patients, with a BMI range of 42.6 to 56 kg/m2, age range of 44.8 to 50.7 years, and percentage of women ranging from 45% to 91%. The studies were very heterogeneous regarding type of bariatric surgery, diagnostic criteria for OSA and OSA remission, and delay of OSA reassessment. OSA remission was observed in 26% to 76% of patients at 11-12 months post-surgery. Loss to follow-up was high in all studies, leading to a potential underestimation of OSA remission. Based on this limited sample of bariatric patients, age, pre-operative OSA severity, proportion of weight loss, and type 2 diabetes (T2D) were identified as factors associated with OSA persistence but the results were inconsistent between studies regarding the impact of age and the magnitude of weight loss. Several other factors may potentially lead to OSA persistence in the bariatric surgery population, such as fat distribution, ethnicity, anatomical predisposition, pathophysiological traits, supine position, and REM-predominant hypopnea and apnea. Further well-conducted multicentric prospective studies are needed to document the importance of these factors to achieve a better understanding of OSA persistence after bariatric surgery in obese patients.

Deep learning of sleep apnea-hypopnea events for accurate classification of obstructive sleep apnea and determination of clinical severity

BACKGROUND

/Objective: Automatic apnea/hypopnea events classification, crucial for clinical applications, often faces challenges, particularly in hypopnea detection. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of a combined approach using nasal respiration flow (RF), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and ECG signals during polysomnography (PSG) for improved sleep apnea/hypopnea detection and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity screening.

METHODS

An Xception network was trained using main features from RF, SpO2, and ECG signals obtained during PSG. In addition, we incorporated demographic data for enhanced performance. The detection of apnea/hypopnea events was based on RF and SpO2 feature sets, while the screening and severity categorization of OSA utilized predicted apnea/hypopnea events in conjunction with demographic data.

RESULTS

Using RF and SpO2 feature sets, our model achieved an accuracy of 94 % in detecting apnea/hypopnea events. For OSA screening, an exceptional accuracy of 99 % and an AUC of 0.99 were achieved. OSA severity categorization yielded an accuracy of 93 % and an AUC of 0.91, with no misclassification between normal and mild OSA versus moderate and severe OSA. However, classification errors predominantly arose in cases with hypopnea-prevalent participants.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed method offers a robust automatic detection system for apnea/hypopnea events, requiring fewer sensors than traditional PSG, and demonstrates exceptional performance. Additionally, the classification algorithms for OSA screening and severity categorization exhibit significant discriminatory capacity.

Update on the genetic basis of obstructive sleep apnoea - hype or hope?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a chronic, common condition in western societies which can lead to adverse cardiometabolic effects if left untreated and is one of the commonest causes of excessive daytime somnolence.

RECENT FINDINGS

The presentation of OSAS is diverse and is thought to comprise of different intermediate phenotypes and endotypes in varying proportions in each individual. Unfortunately, due to its heterogeneity and the changing definitions of the disorder by workers in the field, attempts at revealing the genetic basis of OSAS has been fraught with difficulty.

SUMMARY

This brief review presents a short update on the achievements of the past three decades in this understudied and underfunded area of endeavour in respiratory sleep medicine. The genetic underpinnings of OSAS remain elusive.

Proposal of a diagnostic algorithm based on the use of pulse oximetry in obstructive sleep apnea

PURPOSE

The aims of this study were to assess the cut-off values for oxygen desaturation index ≥ 3% (ODI3) to confirm obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in subjects undergoing polysomnography (PSG) and home-based respiratory polygraphy (RP), and to propose an algorithm based on pulse oximetry (PO) for initial management of patients with suspected OSA.

METHODS

This was an observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study. ODI3 was used to classify subjects as healthy (no OSA = AHI < 5 or < 15 events/h) or unhealthy (OSA = AHI ≥ 5 or ≥ 15 events/h). On the PSG or experimental group (Exp-G), we determined ODI3 cut-off values with 100% specificity (Sp) for both OSA definitions. ODI3 values without false positives in the Exp-G were applied to a validation group (Val-G) to assess their performance. A strategy based on PO was proposed in patients with suspected OSA.

RESULTS

In Exp-G (PSG) 1141 patients and in Val-G (RP) 1141 patients were included. In Exp-G, ODI3 > 12 (OSA = AHI ≥ 5) had a sensitivity of 69.5% (CI95% 66.1-72.7) and Sp of 100% (CI95% 99-100), while an ODI3 ≥ 26 had a 53.8% sensitivity (CI95% 49.3-58.2) and Sp of 100% (CI95% 99.4-100) for AHI ≥ 15. A high pretest probability for OSA by Berlin questionaire (≥ 2 categories) had a lower diagnostic performance than by STOP-BANG questionnaire ≥ 5 points (AHI ≥ 5: 0.856 vs. 0.899, p < 0.001; AHI ≥ 15: 0.783 vs. 0.807, p 0.026).

CONCLUSION

We propose the initial use of PO at home in cases of moderate-to-high pretest probability of OSA. This algorithm considers PO as well as RP and PSG for more challenging cases or in case of doubt.

International Consensus Statement on Obstructive Sleep Apnea

BACKGROUND

Evaluation and interpretation of the literature on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) allows for consolidation and determination of the key factors important for clinical management of the adult OSA patient. Toward this goal, an international collaborative of multidisciplinary experts in sleep apnea evaluation and treatment have produced the International Consensus statement on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (ICS:OSA).

METHODS

Using previously defined methodology, focal topics in OSA were assigned as literature review (LR), evidence-based review (EBR), or evidence-based review with recommendations (EBR-R) formats. Each topic incorporated the available and relevant evidence which was summarized and graded on study quality. Each topic and section underwent iterative review and the ICS:OSA was created and reviewed by all authors for consensus.

RESULTS

The ICS:OSA addresses OSA syndrome definitions, pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors for disease, screening methods, diagnostic testing types, multiple treatment modalities, and effects of OSA treatment on multiple OSA-associated comorbidities. Specific focus on outcomes with positive airway pressure (PAP) and surgical treatments were evaluated.

CONCLUSION

This review of the literature consolidates the available knowledge and identifies the limitations of the current evidence on OSA. This effort aims to create a resource for OSA evidence-based practice and identify future research needs. Knowledge gaps and research opportunities include improving the metrics of OSA disease, determining the optimal OSA screening paradigms, developing strategies for PAP adherence and longitudinal care, enhancing selection of PAP alternatives and surgery, understanding health risk outcomes, and translating evidence into individualized approaches to therapy.

New Metrics from Polysomnography: Precision Medicine for OSA Interventions

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly preventable disease accompanied by multiple comorbid conditions. Despite the well-established cardiovascular and neurocognitive sequelae with OSA, the optimal metric for assessing the OSA severity and response to therapy remains controversial. Although overnight polysomnography (PSG) is the golden standard for OSA diagnosis, the abundant information is not fully exploited. With the development of deep learning and the era of big data, new metrics derived from PSG have been validated in some OSA consequences and personalized treatment. In this review, these metrics are introduced based on the pathophysiological mechanisms of OSA and new technologies. Emphasis is laid on the advantages and the prognostic value against apnea-hypopnea index. New classification criteria should be established based on these metrics and other clinical characters for precision medicine.

Home sleep apnea testing with peripheral arterial tonometry to assess outcome in upper airway stimulation

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To determine whether home sleep apnea testing with peripheral arterial tonometry (HSAT-PAT) can be used in upper airway stimulation to evaluate therapy success.

METHODS

Data analysis from 50 consecutive patients receiving upper airway stimulation was performed. Baseline values were measured by polysomnography and HSAT-PAT. Follow-up was performed during and after titration (3-6 months) by polysomnography and HSAT-PAT and after 1 year by HSAT-PAT only. Primary outcome measures were reduction in the apnea-hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index. In addition, an analysis of night-to-night variability for HSAT-PAT was performed.

RESULTS

All 50 patients completed their posttitration visit (3-6 months) and 41 patients completed the 1-year follow-up. In HSAT-PAT after 1 year, the mean apnea-hypopnea index (desaturation 3%) was reduced from 29.5 ± 17.1 events/h to 19.9 ± 13.1 events/h (P < .01) and the oxygen desaturation index (desaturation 4%) was reduced from 17.8 ± 12.6 events/h to 10.2 ± 8.3 events/h (P < .01). Therapy adherence after 1 year was high (6.6 ± 1.9 hours per night) and led to improvement in daytime sleepiness, meaning a reduction in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale score from 12.8 ± 5.4 to 5.9 ± 4.0 (P < .01). Analysis of night-to-night variability showed similar apnea-hypopnea index values between the 2 nights.

CONCLUSIONS

Upper airway stimulation was able to reduce the apnea-hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index after 1 year, as assessed by full-night efficacy studies with HSAT-PAT. In addition, improvements in self-reported outcome parameters were observed. The importance of publishing the scoring criteria is highlighted and whether data are based on full-night efficacy studies or a selected period of time from a sleep study. This is a prerequisite for comparing data with other trials in the emerging field of upper airway stimulation.

CITATION

Hinder D, Schams SC, Knaus C, Tschopp K. Home sleep apnea testing with peripheral arterial tonometry to assess outcome in upper airway stimulation. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(9):2197-2205.

Impact of Desaturation Patterns versus Apnea-Hypopnea Index in the Development of Cardiovascular Comorbidities in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients

Various phenotypes of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have been recently described and are poorly assessed by the commonly used polysomnographic indices, such as the apnea-hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index. Nocturnal hypoxemia is the hallmark of OSA and new quantitative markers, as hypoxic burden or desaturation severity, have been shown to be associated with cardiovascular (CV) mortality. The purpose of this overview is to review the endophenotypical and clinical characteristics of OSA, the current metrics, and to analyze different measurements of hypoxemia in OSA to predict the cardiovascular impact (eg hypoxic burden). Potential interest of multidimensional models to classify OSA, such as BAVENO classification, is also discussed, with the goal of focusing on specific endophenotypes that are likely to develop CV comorbidities, in order to guide clinicians to more aggressive management of OSA in these individuals.

A transition to the AASM recommended hypopnea definition in adults: initiatives of the Hypopnea Scoring Rule Task Force

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) recommends that hypopneas be identified using a definition that is based on a ≥30% decrease in airflow associated with a ≥3% reduction in the oxygen saturation or an arousal (H3A) for diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults. This conflicts with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) definition, which requires a ≥4% decrease in the oxygen saturation to identify a hypopnea (H4) and does not acknowledge arousals. In 2018, the AASM board of directors constituted a Hypopnea Scoring Rule Task Force (HSRTF) with a mandate to "create a strategy for adoption and implementation of the AASM recommended adult hypopnea scoring criteria among members, payers and device manufacturers." The task force initiated several activities including a survey of AASM accredited laboratories and discussions with polysomnography software vendors. Survey results indicated that most laboratories scored polysomnograms using only the CMS definition. Vendors indicated that they could easily support dual scoring. Informal testing among task force members' laboratories confirmed there would be little additional work if dual scoring was performed. The task force convened several meetings of a working group of OSA content experts and interested parties, with the purpose of creating research recommendations to study the impact on relevant clinical outcomes using the different definitions of hypopnea. Several possible prospective and retrospective approaches were discussed with emphasis on the group of patients diagnosed with OSA based on an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) using H3A but NOT H4. Based on the deliberations of the working group, the HSRTF submitted recommendations to the AASM Foundation concerning research project strategies for potential grant funding. Further discussions within the HSRTF focused on developing advocacy initiatives among patient stakeholder groups to change payer policy.

Defining obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome: a failure of semantic rules

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is one of the most ubiquitous medical conditions in industrialised society. Since the recognition that symptoms of excessive daytime somnolence, problems with concentration, mood and cognitive impairment, as well as cardiometabolic abnormalities can arise as a consequence of obstructed breathing during sleep, it has been subject to variation in its definition. Over the past five decades, attempts have been made to standardise the definitions and scoring criteria used for apnoeas and hypopnoea, which are the hallmarks of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). However, applying these definitions in clinical and research practice has resulted in over- and under-estimation of the severity and prevalence of OSAS. Furthermore, the definitions may eventually become redundant in the context of rapid technological advances in breathing measurement and other signal acquisition. Increased efforts towards precision medicine have led to a focus on the pathophysiology of obstructed breathing during sleep. However, the same degree of effort has not been focused on how and why the latter does or does not result in diurnal symptoms, integral to the definition of OSAS. This review focuses on OSAS in adults and discusses some of the difficulties with current definitions and the possible reasons behind them.

The definition of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome appears to be in constant flux dependent on the definitions attributed to its diagnostic componentshttps://bit.ly/3zXrWKg

Arousal-based scoring of obstructive hypopneas

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Obstructive sleep apnea in adults is diagnosed by an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) above five (at least five apneas and/or hypopneas per hour of sleep). Though the definition of apneas has remained stable, the scoring criteria for hypopneas has varied throughout the years. There is even more evidence now that scoring respiratory events associated with arousals should be included in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, as these patients may benefit from treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies, trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that respiratory events associated with arousal are associated with symptoms, such as poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness. These arousal-based hypopneas have also been noted to carry a risk of hypertension and other adverse health consequences.

SUMMARY

Requiring a 4% oxygen desaturation for hypopneas may miss patients that may benefit from treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. These patients are typically younger, nonobese, and women as they have been found to have respiratory events causing sleep fragmentation versus significant oxygen desaturation as compared with other populations.

Improving Machine Learning Technology in the Field of Sleep

The authors discuss the challenges of machine- and deep learning-based automatic analysis of obstructive sleep apnea with respect to known issues with the signal interpretation, patient physiology, and the apnea-hypopnea index. Their goal is to provide guidance for sleep and machine learning professionals working in this area of sleep medicine. They suggest that machine learning approaches may well be better targeted at examining and attempting to improve the diagnostic criteria, in order to build a more nuanced understanding of the detailed circumstances surrounding OSA, rather than merely attempting to reproduce human scoring.

Impact of obstructive sleep apnea on cardiometabolic health in a random sample of older adults in rural South Africa: building the case for the treatment of sleep disorders in underresourced settings

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and increased cardiometabolic risk (CMR) has been well documented in higher-income countries. However, OSA and its association with CMR have not yet been investigated, based on objective measures, in southern Africa. We measured polysomnography-derived sleep characteristics, OSA prevalence, and its association with cardiometabolic diseases in a rural, low-income, African-ancestry sample of older adult participants in South Africa.

METHODS

Seventy-five participants completed the study. Body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and HIV status were determined. A continuous CMR score was calculated using waist circumference, random glucose, high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and mean arterial blood pressure. Sleep architecture, arousal index, and apnea-hypopnea index for detection of the OSA (apnea-hypopnea index ≥ 15 events/h) were assessed by home-based polysomnography. Associations between CMR score and age, sex, socioeconomic status, apnea-hypopnea index, and total sleep time were investigated by multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

In our sample (53 women, age 66.1 ± 10.7 years, 12 HIV+), 60.7% of participants were overweight/obese, 61.3% were hypertensive, and 29.3% had undiagnosed OSA. Being older (P = .02) and having a higher body mass index (P = .02) and higher waist circumference (P < .01) were associated with OSA. Apnea-hypopnea index severity (β = 0.011; P = .01) and being a woman (β = 0.369; P = .01) were independently associated with a higher CMR score in socioeconomic status- and age-adjusted analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

In this South African community with older adults with obesity and hypertension, OSA prevalence is alarming and associated with CMR. We show the feasibility of detecting OSA in a rural setting using polysomnography. Our results highlight the necessity for actively promoting health education and systematic screening and treatment of OSA in this population to prevent future cardiovascular morbidity, especially among women.

Health outcomes of continuous positive airway pressure versus mandibular advancement device for the treatment of severe obstructive sleep apnea: an individual participant data meta-analysis

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The impact of therapy with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and mandibular advancement device (MAD) has not been directly compared in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The purpose of this individual participant data meta-analysis was to compare the treatment effects of CPAP and titratable MAD on sleepiness, quality of life, sleep-disordered breathing severity, and sleep structure in patients with severe OSA.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that included severe OSA patients were identified in order to compare the impact of the two treatments. Individual data from severe OSA patients were extracted from the databases and pooled for analysis.

RESULTS

Of the seven studies identified, three crossover RCT and one parallel-group RCT corresponding to 151 patients and 249 observations (125 in the CPAP treatment arm and 124 in the MAD treatment arm) were included in the analysis. Titratable MAD had a similar impact to CPAP on major patient-centered outcomes (sleepiness and quality of life). CPAP was more effective in reducing AHI and ODI. However, the two treatments had a similar impact on sleep structure with an increase of N3 and REM sleep. Finally, treatment adherence and preference were largely in favor of MAD.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests that MAD represents an effective alternative treatment in severe OSA patients intolerant to CPAP or who prefer alternate therapy.

Polysomnographic analysis of respiratory events during sleep in young nonobese Japanese adults without clinical complaints of sleep apnea

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence and characteristics of apnea-hypopnea events in young nonobese healthy Japanese participants.

METHODS

One hundred and three young adult participants without sleep complaints (men: 56; women: 47; age: 24.5 ± 3.0 years; body mass index: 20.9 ± 1.8 kg/m²) underwent 2-night polysomnography. Data on the 2nd night were scored according to American Academy of Sleep Medicine criteria version 2.1. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was estimated. The arousal threshold was calculated in participants with AHI ≥ 5 events/h. Apnea-hypopnea events were rescored by 3 other criteria issued by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM): Chicago criteria in 1999 and recommended and alternative criteria in 2007.

RESULTS

Participants had good sleep characterized by high sleep efficiency (93.2%). Mean AHI of AASM 2.1 recommended criteria was 4.0 ± 5.3 events/h. AHI was significantly higher in men (median [range] = 4.0[.3-35.8] events/h) than in women (1.6 [.1-18.1] events/h). The prevalence rates of AHI ≥ 5 events/h and ≥ 15 events/h were 25.2 and 3.9%, respectively. The arousal threshold was estimated as -7.7 ± 2.6 cm H₂O. AHI was lower for AASM 2007 recommended criteria (.8 [.0-18.2 events/h]) and AASM 2007 alternative (2.0 [.1-32.2] events/h) than for AASM version 2.1 recommended criteria (2.4 [.1-32.9] events/h) and AASM Chicago (4.6 [.1-35.8] events/h). The percentage of participants with AHI ≥ 5 events/h was approximately 2-fold higher with AASM Chicago (44.6%) than with AASM version 2.1 recommended criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated that 25% of young nonobese Japanese participants had subclinical obstructive sleep apnea. The presence of frequent airflow limitations may be a risk factor for the development of obstructive sleep apnea in Japanese individuals.

Incidence of hypertension in obstructive sleep apnea using hypopneas defined by 3 percent oxygen desaturation or arousal but not by only 4 percent oxygen desaturation

STUDY OBJECTIVES

This analysis determined ∼5-year incident hypertension rates using the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association blood pressure (BP) guidelines in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with hypopneas defined by a ≥ 3% oxygen desaturation or arousal but not by a hypopnea criterion of ≥ 4% oxygen desaturation (4% only).

METHODS

Data were analyzed from participants in the Sleep Heart Health Study exam 2 (n = 1219) who were normotensive (BP ≤ 120/80 mm Hg) at exam 1. The AHI at exam 1 was classified into 4 categories of OSA severity: < 5, 5 ≤ 15, 15 ≤ 30, and ≥ 30 events/h using both the 3% oxygen desaturation or arousal and the 4% only definitions. Three definitions of hypertension-elevated BP (> 120/80 mm Hg), stage 1 (> 130/80 mm Hg), and stage 2 (> 140/90 mm Hg)-were used to determine incidence rates at exam 2.

RESULTS

Five-year follow-up was available for 476 participants classified as having OSA by the 3% oxygen desaturation or arousal criterion but not by the 4% only standard at exam 1. Incident hypertension using American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association-defined BP categories in these discordantly classified individuals were 15% (elevated BP), 15% (stage 1), and 6% (stage 2). Hypertensive medications were used in 4% of participants who were normotensive. The overall incidence rate of at least an elevated BP was 40% (191/476) in those with OSA defined using the 3% oxygen desaturation or arousal criterion but not by the 4% only criterion.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the 4% only hypopnea definition resulted in the failure to identify a significant number of individuals with OSA who eventually developed hypertension and could have benefited from earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Cardiovascular and somatic comorbidities and sleep measures using three hypopnea criteria in mild obstructive sleep-disordered breathing: sex, age, and body mass index differences in a retrospective sleep clinic cohort

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To describe sex, age, and body mass index (BMI) differences in comorbidities and polysomnography measures, categorized using 3 different apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) criteria in sleep clinic patients with mild obstructive sleep-disordered breathing.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of 305 (64% female) adult sleep clinic patients who underwent full-night in-laboratory polysomnography having been diagnosed with mild sleep-disordered breathing and prescribed positive airway pressure. Effects of sex, age, and BMI on comorbidities and polysomnography measures, including rates of AHI defined by ≥ 3% desaturations (AHI_3%), with arousals (AHI_3%A), by ≥ 4% desaturations (AHI_4%), and by respiratory disturbance index, were evaluated.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine (23%), 116 (38%), 258 (85%), and 267 (88%) patients had AHI_4%, AHI_3%, AHI_3%A, and respiratory disturbance index ≥ 5 events/h, respectively. Ninety-day positive airway pressure adherence rates were 45.9% overall and higher in women > 50-years-old (51.2%, P = 0.013) and men (54.5%, P = 0.024) with no difference whether AHI_4% or AHI_3%A was < 5 or ≥ 5 events/h. Men and women had similar rates of daytime sleepiness (43.3%), anxiety (44.9%), and hypertension (44.9%). Women were more likely to have obesity, anemia, asthma, depression, diabetes, fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism, migraine, and lower rates of coronary artery disease. More patients with AHI_4% < 5 events/h had depression, migraines, and anemia, and more patients with AHI_4% ≥ 5 events/h had congestive heart failure. Women were more likely to have higher sleep maintenance and efficiency, shorter average obstructive apnea and hypopnea durations, and less supine-dominant pattern. Average obstructive apnea and hypopnea duration decreased with increasing BMI, and average hypopnea duration increased with age. Obstructive apnea duration and obstructive hypopnea with arousal duration decreased with increasing BMI. More women had AHI_4% < 5 (81.5% vs 69.1%), AHI_3% < 5 (68.7% vs 49.1%), and AHI_3%A < 5 events/h (18.5% vs 10.0%). Greater age and higher BMI were associated with higher AHI.

CONCLUSIONS

Current AHI criteria do not predict comorbidities or adherence in mild sleep-disordered breathing patients. In this hypothesis-generating descriptive analysis, sex, BMI, and age may all be factors that should be accounted for in future research of mild sleep-disordered breathing patients. Different sleep study measures may weigh differently in calculations of risk for cardiovascular versus somatic comorbidities.

Neuromodulation in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Epidemiological studies show a steady rise in the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Untreated OSA is responsible for numerous chronic health conditions, motor vehicle, and workplace-related accidents leading to substantial economic burden both to the individual and society. Multiple causes for OSA and a wide range of consequences has made its diagnosis and treatment difficult. Obstructive sleep apnea may be caused by anatomical variation, increased collapsibility of the upper airway, low sleep arousal threshold, and exaggerated response to desaturation. Lifestyle changes, anatomical corrective surgeries, and oral appliances have been used but patient compliance is poor as it interferes in the daily routine. Neuromodulation is a promising functional modifying option that addresses the cause of obstructive sleep apnea at multiple levels.

The role of long-term continuous positive airway pressure in the progression of obstructive sleep apnoea: A longitudinal cohort study

Recent evidence suggests that short-term obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment could affect OSA pathogenesis such as ventilatory control. The aim of our present study was to identify the impact of long-term treatment on the change in pathogenesis and natural progression of OSA. In a longitudinal analysis of a non-obese cohort study, patients with OSA treated with either continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or an oral appliance (OA), interrupted their treatment for 1 week and underwent a polysomnography (PSG) off treatment that was compared with their initial PSG taken 5 years before treatment initiation. In all, 154 consecutive patients with OSA who were treated by CPAP using an auto-titrating continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP-APAP) (n = 112), or by OA (n = 27) or were untreated (n = 15), PSG was performed twice with a median (range) follow-up of 93 (60-176) months. Multivariate logistic regression showed that reduction of body mass index (BMI) and good treatment adherence to be significant predictors of favourable OSA progression, as represented by an improved or unchanged apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) (odds ratios were 5.14 and 2.89, respectively). Amongst the patients with an unchanged BMI and good CPAP-APAP adherence (n = 55), the improvement in AHI was significantly associated with the decrease in supine non-rapid eye movement-AHI and mixed apnoea index/apnoea index, which are generally recognised to be determinants of ventilator instability. These findings suggest that not only weight but also treatment adherence are determinants in the natural progression of OSA severity.

Apnoea-hypopnoea-index comparing the 2007 and 2012 American Academy of Sleep Medicine criteria in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/obstructive sleep apnoea overlap syndrome

Background

In 2007 and 2012, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) updated their scoring criteria for nocturnal respiratory events. We hypothesised that this could have led to changes in the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) overlap syndrome.

Methods

In a retrospective study, polysomnographic (PSG) recordings of 34 patients with COPD/OSA overlap syndrome were independently analysed using the AASM criteria from 2007 (AASM₂₀₀₇) and 2012 (AASM₂₀₁₂). The primary outcome was the difference in AHI, the secondary outcomes were frequency of hypopnoeas, diagnosis of overlap syndrome and differences between the AASM 2007 recommended (AASM_2007Rec) and altered (AASM_2007Alt) classifications. Data are presented as mean (standard deviation) if normally distributed, and as median (interquartile range) if non-normally distributed.

Results

The PSGs of 34 elderly [aged 67 (7.0) years] and predominantly male (m:f, 31:3) patients with COPD [FEV₁%pred 48.4% (19.6%)] were analysed. The AHI using AASM_2007Rec criteria was 5.9 (2.0, 15.1) events/hour vs. 20.4 (11.5, 28.0) events/hour using the 2012 criteria (P<0.001); with the AASM_2007Alt criteria, the AHI was 15.0 (9.3, 26.3) events/hour (P<0.001). Using the 2012 classification, the number of scored hypopnoeas increased by +48% compared to the AASM_2007Rec criteria (P<0.001), 92% of these events were associated with arousal. Although statistically non-significant, using the AASM_2007Alt classification, 12% of our cohort would not have been diagnosed with COPD/OSA overlap syndrome (P=0.114), this was also the case for 47% of the cohort when the AASM_2007Rec classification was used (P<0.01).

Conclusions

The use of the AASM₂₀₁₂ scoring rules results in a significantly higher AHI compared to the AASM₂₀₀₇ criteria in patients with COPD/OSA overlap syndrome, mostly due to an increased number of arousal-associated hypopnoeas. These observations are important for the definition of the COPD/OSA overlap syndrome.

The Association Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea Defined by 3 Percent Oxygen Desaturation or Arousal Definition and Self-Reported Cardiovascular Disease in the Sleep Heart Health Study

Background

Studies have established that OSA defined using a hypopnea definition requiring a ≥4% oxygen desaturation (AHI4%) is associated with cardiovascular (CVD) or coronary heart (CHD) disease. This study determined whether OSA defined using a hypopnea definition characterized by a ≥3% oxygen desaturation or an arousal (AHI3%A) is associated with CVD/CHD.

Methods

Data were analyzed from 6307 Sleep Heart Health Study participants who had polysomnography. Self-reported CVD included angina, heart attack, heart failure, stroke, previous coronary bypass surgery or angioplasty. Self-reported CHD included the aforementioned conditions but not stroke or heart failure. The association between OSA and CVD/CHD was examined using logistic regression models with stepwise inclusion of demographic, anthropometric, social/behavioral and co-morbid medical conditions. A parsimonious model in which diabetes and hypertension were excluded because of their potential to be on the causal pathway between OSA and CVD/CHD also was constructed.

Results

For CVD, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for AHI3%A ≥30/hour were 1.39 (1.03-1.87) and 1.45 (1.09-1.94) in the fully adjusted and parsimonious models. Results for CHD were 1.29 (0.96-1.74) and 1.36 (0.99-1.85). In participants without OSA according to more stringent AHI4% criteria but with OSA using the AHI3%A definition, similar findings were observed.

Conclusion

OSA defined using an AHI3%A is associated with both CVD and CHD. Use of a more restrictive AHI4% definition will misidentify a large number of individuals with OSA who have CVD or CHD. These individuals may be denied access to therapy, potentially worsening their underlying CVD or CHD.

Wearable monitoring of sleep-disordered breathing: estimation of the apnea-hypopnea index using wrist-worn reflective photoplethysmography

A large part of the worldwide population suffers from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a disorder impairing the restorative function of sleep and constituting a risk factor for several cardiovascular pathologies. The standard diagnostic metric to define OSA is the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), typically obtained by manually annotating polysomnographic recordings. However, this clinical procedure cannot be employed for screening and for long-term monitoring of OSA due to its obtrusiveness and cost. Here, we propose an automatic unobtrusive AHI estimation method fully based on wrist-worn reflective photoplethysmography (rPPG), employing a deep learning model exploiting cardiorespiratory and sleep information extracted from the rPPG signal trained with 250 recordings. We tested our method with an independent set of 188 heterogeneously disordered clinical recordings and we found it estimates the AHI with a good agreement to the gold standard polysomnography reference (correlation = 0.61, estimation error = 3±10 events/h). The estimated AHI was shown to reliably assess OSA severity (weighted Cohen's kappa = 0.51) and screen for OSA (ROC-AUC = 0.84/0.86/0.85 for mild/moderate/severe OSA). These findings suggest that wrist-worn rPPG measurements that can be implemented in wearables such as smartwatches, have the potential to complement standard OSA diagnostic techniques by allowing unobtrusive sleep and respiratory monitoring.

The relationship between diurnal variation of cytokines and symptom expression in mild obstructive sleep apnea

OBJECTIVES

To identify the relationship between (1) cytokines and everyday symptoms and (2) cytokine diurnal variation and everyday symptoms in mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

METHODS

An observational, single-night study of 20 adults with mild to moderate OSA undergoing diagnostic polysomnography. Everyday symptoms included sleepiness measured by Stanford Sleepiness Scale, fatigue and energy levels measured by Lee Fatigue Scale, and cytokine plasma concentrations including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) measured concurrent with symptoms at presleep (8 pm to 10 pm; time 1) and postsleep (5 am to 6 am; time. 2) Cytokine diurnal variation was calculated as [time 2 - time 1]. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Spearman partial rank correlations adjusted for age, body mass index, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes were used.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (50% male, obese, median age = 51.0 years) with mild OSA (apnea-hypopnea index, AHI; median 9.5 events/h) were evaluated. Evening IL-6 was associated with evening symptoms, including sleepiness (r = .69, P = .002) and energy level (r = -0.68, P = .003); morning IL-8 (r = .73, P = .001), and TNF-α (r = .59, P = .015) were associated with morning fatigue. Only morning IL-8 (r = -0.57, P = .022) and diurnal variations in IL-8 (r = -0.60, P = .014) were associated with morning energy level.

CONCLUSION

There is scant evidence addressing the diurnal variation of inflammatory biomarkers and the relationship with symptom expression in mild OSA. The present findings provide preliminary mechanistic findings for symptom expression in OSA and contribute insight to mild OSA symptom phenotypes.

Defining Extreme Phenotypes of OSA Across International Sleep Centers

BACKGROUND

Extreme phenotypes of OSA have not been systematically defined.

RESEARCH QUESTION

This study developed objective definitions of extreme phenotypes of OSA by using a multivariate approach. The utility of these definitions for identifying characteristics that confer predisposition toward or protection against OSA is shown in a new prospective sample.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In a large international sample, race-specific liability scores were calculated from a weighted logistic regression that included age, sex, and BMI. Extreme cases were defined as individuals with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 30 events/hour but low likelihood of OSA based on age, sex, and BMI (liability scores > 90th percentile). Similarly, extreme controls were individuals with an AHI < 5 events/hour but high likelihood of OSA (liability scores < 10th percentile). Definitions were applied to a prospective sample from the Sleep Apnea Global Interdisciplinary Consortium, and differences in photography-based craniofacial and intraoral phenotypes were evaluated.

RESULTS

This study included retrospective data from 81,338 individuals. A total of 4,168 extreme cases and 1,432 extreme controls were identified by using liability scores. Extreme cases were younger (43.1 ± 14.7 years), overweight (28.6 ± 6.8 kg/m²), and predominantly female (71.1%). Extreme controls were older (53.8 ± 14.1 years), obese (34.0 ± 8.1 kg/m²), and predominantly male (65.8%). These objective definitions identified 29 extreme cases and 87 extreme controls among 1,424 Sleep Apnea Global Interdisciplinary Consortium participants with photography-based phenotyping. Comparisons suggest that a greater cervicomental angle increases risk for OSA in the absence of clinical risk factors, and smaller facial widths are protective in the presence of clinical risk factors.

INTERPRETATION

This objective definition can be applied in sleep centers throughout the world to consistently define OSA extreme phenotypes for future studies on genetic, anatomic, and physiologic pathways to OSA.

Continuous positive airway pressure versus standard care for the treatment of people with mild obstructive sleep apnoea (MERGE): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The evidence base for the treatment of mild obstructive sleep apnoea is limited and definitions of disease severity vary. The MERGE trial investigated the clinical effectiveness of continuous positive airway pressure in patients with mild obstructive sleep apnoea.

METHODS

MERGE, a multicentre, parallel, randomised controlled trial enrolled patients (≥18 years to ≤80 years) with mild obstructive sleep apnoea (apnoea-hypopnoea index [AHI] ≥5 to ≤15 events per h using either AASM 2007 or AASM 2012 scoring criteria) from 11 UK sleep centres. Participants were assigned (1:1) to either 3 months of continuous positive airway pressure plus standard care (sleep counselling), or standard care alone, by computer-generated randomisation; neither participants nor researchers were blinded. The primary outcome was a change in the score on the Short Form-36 questionnaire vitality scale in the intention-to-treat population of patients with mild obstructive sleep apnoea diagnosed using the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 2012 scoring criteria. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02699463.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 28, 2016 and Feb 12, 2019, 301 patients were recruited and randomised. 233 had mild obstructive sleep apnoea using AASM 2012 criteria and were included in the intention-to-treat analysis: 115 were allocated to receive continuous positive airway pressure and 118 to receive standard care. 209 (90%) of these participants completed the trial. The vitality score significantly increased with a treatment effect of a mean of 10·0 points (95% CI 7·2-12·8; p<0·0001) after 3 months of continuous positive airway pressure, compared with standard care alone (9·2 points [6·8 to 11·6] vs -0·8 points [-3·2 to 1·5]). Using the ANCOVA last-observation-carried-forward analysis, a more conservative estimate, the vitality score also significantly increased with a treatment effect of a mean of 7·5 points (95% CI 5·3 to 9·6; p<0·0001) after 3 months of continuous positive airway pressure, compared with standard care alone (7·5 points [6·0 to 9·0] vs 0·0 points [-1·5 to 1·5]). Three serious adverse events occurred (one allocated to the continuous positive airway pressure group) and all were unrelated to the intervention.

INTERPRETATION

3 months of treatment with continuous positive airway pressure improved the quality of life in patients with mild obstructive sleep apnoea. These results highlight the need for health-care professionals and providers to consider treatment for patients with mild obstructive sleep apnoea.

FUNDING

ResMed Ltd.

The Association Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea Characterized by a Minimum 3 Percent Oxygen Desaturation or Arousal Hypopnea Definition and Hypertension

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and hypertension in prior studies has been determined using a definition of hypopnea requiring a 4% O₂ desaturation. However, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) recommends using a 3% O₂ desaturation or an arousal. This analysis assesses the relationship between OSA and hypertension utilizing the AASM recommended definition and the 2018 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association hypertension guidelines.

METHODS

Data from 6113 participants from the Sleep Heart Health Study were analyzed. The AASM recommended apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was classified into 4 categories of OSA severity: < 5, 5 to < 15, 15 to < 30 and ≥ 30 events/h. Three definitions of hypertension were used: elevated (> 120/< 80 or use of hypertension medications [meds]), stage 1/stage 2 (> 130/80 or meds), stage 2 (> 140/90 or meds). Data were analyzed using logistic regression controlling for demographics, smoking and body mass index. Multiple linear regression analysis assessed the relationship between natural log AHI, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure controlling for the same covariates.

RESULTS

For all definitions of blood pressure elevation, increasing OSA severity was associated with greater likelihood of an elevated or hypertensive status in fully adjusted models (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]): elevated 1.30 (1.09-1.54), 1.39 (1.13-1.70) 1.69 (1.29-2.13); stage 1/2: 1.25 (1.06-1.47), 1.32 (1.10-1.59), 1.53 (1.23-1.91); stage 2: 1.07 (0.91-1.25), 1.21 (1.01-1.44), 1.37 (1.11-1.69) for AHI 5 to < 15, 15 to < 30 and > 30 events/h (< 5 events/h reference). Linear regression found that AHI was associated with both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in fully adjusted models.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the AASM recommended definition of hypopnea as a component of the AHI is associated with the presence of hypertension.

CITATION

Budhiraja R, Javaheri S, Parthasarathy S, Berry RB, Quan SF. The association between obstructive sleep apnea characterized by a minimum 3 percent oxygen desaturation or arousal hypopnea definition and hypertension. J Clin Sleep Med. 2019;15(9):1261-1270.

Overview of Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Disorders in Parkinson Disease

Sleep disorders are common among PD patients and affect quality of life. They are often under-recognized and under-treated. Mechanisms of sleep disorders in PD remain relatively poorly understood. Improved awareness of common sleep problems in PD. Tailored treatment and evidence for efficacy are lacking. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview and update on the most common sleep disorders in PD. We review specific features of the most common sleep disorders in PD, including insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep-disordered breathing, restless legs syndrome, circadian rhythm disorders and REM sleep behavior disorders.