Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2024 Oct;67(10):515-524. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2024.00374.

Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Clinical Manifestations and Consequences

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
  • 2Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Bucheon Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Bucheon, Korea

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly impacts the quality of life in children, affecting their physical and mental health. The pathophysiology involves a complex interaction between anatomical factors (such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids, and structural abnormalities) and obesity, along with neuromuscular compensations. Clinical manifestations include loud snoring, breathing pauses, restless sleep, unusual sleeping positions, and frequent awakenings. OSA can lead to enuresis, growth impairment, poor academic performance, and neurocognitive and behavioral difficulties. Long-term consequences are cardiovascular morbidity, metabolic dysfunction, and neurocognitive impairment. Many studies have explored these associations and the impact of adenotonsillectomy. This review provides an overview of clinical manifestations and consequences of OSA, aiming to enhance diagnosis and treatment strategies for pediatric OSA.

Keyword

Complications; Obstructive sleep apnea; Pathophysiology; Signs and symptoms
Full Text Links
  • KJORL-HN
Actions
Cited
CITED
export Copy
Close
Share
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
Similar articles
Copyright © 2024 by Korean Association of Medical Journal Editors. All rights reserved.     E-mail: koreamed@kamje.or.kr