Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome revealed by neurological complications in children: about two cases

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by an irregular sleep snoring with breathing pauses responsible for sleep architecture changes showed in polysomnography. Its neurological manifestations include behavioral disorders and academic difficulties. We report in two pediatric cases a rare revelation of this syndrome: anoxic seizure. Our two patients were six years-old and 20 months-old. The first presented a generalized seizure while sleeping. The second had a hypotonic seizure and coma during two days. Chronic snoring story was found in both cases. Polysomnographic recordings showed a high apnea-hypopnea index. A tonsillectomy was performed and the outcome was favorable with weight gain, better sleep quality and cognitive behavior. Conclusion: Although common, OSAS remains unknown. Its screening must be systematic in children with sleep snoring to avoid its complications.