Influence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome on cognition development in children

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) was first described more than a century ago; however, OSAS in children was first described in 1976. OSAS is a common problem in children as in adults, with a prevalence of 1-3%. OSAS is becoming a substantial health risk in children and the under-diagnosed condition may lead to substantial morbidity if left untreated. Childhood OSAS could be associated with cognitive development, but the impact of OSAS on cognitive learning is unclear; it could be associated with cognitive and functional deficits. Recent evidence suggests the possibility of sustained cognitive impairment in children with OSAS. There is little published on this subject, and the aim of this review is to provide a synthesis of the current literature addressing the effects of OSAS on cognitive development in children.