Peripheral neuropathology of the upper airway in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common sleep disorder that leads to significant morbidity and mortality without adequate treatment. Though much emphasis on the pathogenesis of OSAS has been placed on a narrow upper airway space and associated muscular factors, possible neuropathy of the upper airway has not been fully elucidated. Increasing peer reviewed evidence suggests involvement of neurologic lesions of the upper airway in OSAS patients. In this article, we review the etiology and pathophysiology of OSAS, the evidence and possible mechanisms leading to upper airway neuropathy, and the relationship between upper airway neuropathy and OSAS. Further studies should focus on the long term effects of the upper airway neuropathy as related to the duration and severity of snoring and or apnea, and also on the potential methods of prevention and management of the neuropathy in sleep disordered breathing.
School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
Yi-Ju
YJ
Tsai
Kannan
K
Ramar
Yao-Jen
YJ
Liang
Po-Han
PH
Chiu
Nelson
N
Powell
Chao-Yun
CY
Chi
Tzu-Chen
TC
Lung
Wesley
W
Wen-Yang Lin
Po-Jung
PJ
Tseng
Ming-Ying
MY
Wu
Kuan-Chiao
KC
Chien
Edward M
EM
Weaver
Fei-Peng
FP
Lee
Chia-Mo
CM
Lin
Kuang-Chao
KC
Chen
Rayleigh Ping-Ying
RP
Chiang
D000344:Afferent Pathways / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D010159:Palate / Q000503:physiopathology; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D010614:Pharynx / Q000503:physiopathology; D020545:Respiratory Mucosa / Q000503:physiopathology; D012137:Respiratory System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D020181:Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology