Sleep in Children at Risk

Disturbances of sleep-wake function are common in premature infants and in those who have cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Prader Willi syndrome, Chiari malformations, neuromuscular disorders, epilepsy, blindness, sickle cell anemia, and other disabilities. Recognizing and treating the underlying sleep disorder may enhance the quality of life in these conditions. This article reviews sleep-related aspects of these illnesses.