Childhood onset narcolepsy--a case report.
Narcolepsy is a disorder of the sleep-wake cycle with long-term sequelae. Although regarded as rare, it is probably under-diagnosed in both adults and children. Clinical heterogeneity, particularly in childhood, and development of symptoms over time, contribute to the delay in diagnosis and treatment. We present a case of a child with symptoms suggestive of narcolepsy. We discuss the merits of early intervention in selected cases, even when full diagnostic criteria are lacking.
McKenna
Laura
L
Department of Child Psychiatry, Bristol Childrens Hospital, St Michaels Hill, Bristol BS2 8BJ, UK.
McNicholas
Fiona
F
D017668:Age of Onset; D002648:Child; D002652:Child Behavior; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009290:Narcolepsy / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy