Treatment of otherwise normal children with obstructive sleep apnea.
There are many therapeutic approaches to children with OSA. Treatment should be considered only when the severity of the syndrome has been established by objective testing including overnight polysomnography. Anatomic abnormalities, including adenotonsillar hypertrophy, must be defined. Once the severity and underlying cause of OSA have been established, the most appropriate approach can be devised for the individual. Mild cases may simply be observed. Moderate or severe patients whose nasopharynx is obstructed by lymphoid hyperplasia may be treated with adenotonsillectomy. If surgery is declined or contraindicated, nasal CPAP is effective. CPAP is also useful as a temporary measure while weight loss is being effected.
Brooks
L J
LJ
Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University.
D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D011175:Positive-Pressure Respiration; D012891:Sleep Apnea Syndromes / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*