Obstructive sleep apnea: a pediatric epidemic

Sleep disordered breathing is a continuum of breathing abnormalities that affects children and adults. In children, the diagnosis of the most severe form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is difficult. Polysomnography is not widely used, rather the diagnosis is based on clinical history and physical exam. These children may suffer from cardiorespiratory and neurobehavioral effects from the OSA. Treatment for children is primarily tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy surgery. Children who desaturate intermittently during sleep appear to be more sensitive to the respiratory depressant effects of opioids. Careful postoperative care for those at risk for complications is warranted.