1227 a Case of a Fearful Slumber

Abstract

Introduction Isolated sleep paralysis (ISP) occurs when rapid eye movement (REM)-based atonia intrudes into wakefulness, outside the context of narcolepsy, substance abuse, mental disorder or other medical conditions. No “gold standard” assessment and diagnostic instrument currently exists. Report of Case A 63-year old female with hypersomnia and positive airway pressure (PAP)-controlled obstructive sleep apnea was referred for recurrent episodes of paralysis during sleep-wake transitions, lasting 15-20 seconds, occurring every 2-3 years since the age of 15, and associated with fear and anxiety. Episodes were more frequent in the last 2 years after significant sleep deprivation and starting a weight loss supplement, BIO-X4, which contains green tea and probiotics. No cataplexy, or history of traumatic brain injury and stroke were identified. Epworth Sleepiness Scale score was 14 on armodafinil. Reported sleep amounts were regularly scheduled 6-7-hour periods, with no suggestion of circadian dysfunction. In 2016, polysomnogram showed Apnea-Hypopnea index of 2.6/hour, Respiratory Disturbance Index of 13.8/hour with oxygen nadir of 92% in the setting of hypersomnia. Continuous PAP of 11 cmH20 was initiated after a successful titration with controlled residual AHI during follow-ups. Multiple Sleep Latency Test during the same time revealed mean sleep latency of 5.5 minutes and no sleep-onset REM with 5 naps. Brain imaging and electroencephalogram were both normal as well as drug panel, blood counts, metabolic profile and thyroid function. Decreased episodes and severity of recurrent ISP were reported after discontinuation of the supplement. Apart from anxiety related to the episodes, the patient denied any interference with daytime function. Conclusion Isolated sleep paralysis is an important sleep disorder that requires proper evaluation to rule out competing diagnoses and consideration of therapeutic interventions. Likely associated with a lack of understanding and available literature, the prevalence in the general population is likely higher than what is currently perceived.