Insight into the pathophysiology of restless legs syndrome.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a disorder of sensation with a prevalence of around 2-5% of the population. Relevant to understanding the possible pathophysiological mechanism is the fact that RLS is extremely responsive to dopaminergic agents. A second issue is that iron deficiency states may precipitate RLS in as much as 25-30% of people with iron deficiency. Studies looking at basal ganglia dopaminergic function using PET and SPECT techniques have shown a decrease in binding potential for the dopamine receptor and transporter. Similar phenomena occurs in iron-deficient animals. Using MRI techniques and CSF analysis of iron-related protein, studies have suggested a reduction in brain iron concentration occurs in RLS patients. The relevance of CNS iron metabolism to the pathophysiology of RLS is discussed.
Earley
C J
CJ
Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Allen
R P
RP
Beard
J L
JL
Connor
J R
JR
D000818:Animals; D001692:Biological Transport; D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D004298:Dopamine / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007501:Iron / Q000378:metabolism; D000090463:Iron Deficiencies; D012148:Restless Legs Syndrome / Q000378:metabolism*
D007501:Iron; D004298:Dopamine