Is restless legs syndrome underrecognized? Current management.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a poorly understood sensory-motor neurological disorder whose prevalence in Caucasian populations ranges from 10% to 15%. The patient reports unpleasant sensations in the lower limbs with dysesthesia resulting in an urge to move the legs. The symptoms occur during periods of inactivity, increasing in the evening and at night. Moving the legs provides relief. In 80% of cases, polysomnography shows periodic leg movements during sleep. Patients with idiopathic RLS often report similar symptoms in family members. Secondary RLS may be due to medications, diabetes mellitus, renal failure, iron deficiency, neurological disorders, or rheumatoid arthritis. In secondary RLS, the management rests on treatment of the cause. Symptomatic treatment is warranted in patients with moderate-to-severe symptoms that adversely affect the quality of life. Dopaminergic agents are tried first. When they fail or induce adverse effects, weak opioids, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants or, if needed, strong opioids, may be used.
Vergne-Salle
Pascale
P
Rheumatology and Therapy department, CHU Dupuytren, 2, av Martin-Luther-King, 87042 Limoges cedex, France. pascale.vergne-salle@chu-limoges.fr
Coyral
Damien
D
Dufauret
Karine
K
Bonnet
Christine
C
Bertin
Philippe
P
Trèves
Richard
R
D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D015259:Dopamine Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D017286:Polysomnography; D012148:Restless Legs Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D015259:Dopamine Agents