REM-sleep alterations in children with co-existence of tic disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: impact of hypermotor symptoms

Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2007 Jun:16 Suppl 1:45-50. doi: 10.1007/s00787-007-1006-4.

Abstract

Purpose: To characterize precisely the sleep pattern in children with co-existence of TD + ADHD.

Methods: By means of polysomnography, sleep pattern was investigated in 19 children with TD + ADHD unmedicated before and during study and 19 healthy controls, matched for age, gender, and intelligence.

Results: Compared with healthy controls, children with TD + ADHD displayed shorter REM sleep latency and increased REM sleep duration. There was a negative correlational relationship between these REM-sleep alterations and they were determined by hyperactivity symptoms.

Conclusions: Sleep in children with coexistence of TD + ADHD may be characterized by an elevated REM sleep drive. Common mechanisms are suggested to underpin hypermotor symptoms and REM sleep regulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / epidemiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / physiopathology*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity
  • Polysomnography
  • Sleep, REM*
  • Tic Disorders / epidemiology
  • Tic Disorders / physiopathology*