The primary parasomnias - A review for neurologists

Background: Primary parasomnias are undesirable motor or verbal phenomena which occur during sleep and result in abnormal arousals. They occur out of all sleep stages or during transitions between sleep and awake. Secondary parasomnias are sleep disturbances that are caused by disorders of other organ systems., This review addresses only primary parasomnias. Arousal disorders and the parasomnias associated with REM sleep are the primary parasomnias most likely to be seen in a neurology practice. Sleep-wake transition disorders are also discussed with nocturnal leg cramps, probably the most common in this group. Review Summary: The salient clinical features of the primary parasomnias are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the differential diagnosis of the different conditions and the best management strategies. Parasomnias encountered in infancy, such as infant sleep apnea, are not discussed in this review. Conclusions: Parasomnias are common disturbances of sleep that may significantly affect the patient's quality of life and that of the bed partner. Most parasomnias can be diagnosed with careful history taking and polysomnography, and management is usually safe and effective.