Trastornos respiratorios del sueño en Insuficiencia Cardíaca con fracción de eyección reducida

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Introduction: Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are highly prevalent in patients with heart failure (HF). The presence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) determines a worse prognosis in these patients. There are questionnaires aimed at evaluating the probability of OSA, although none have been validated in patients with HF. The primary objective of this study was to establish the prevalence of SDB in a cohort of patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) from the Multidisciplinary HF Unit (UMIC). As a secondary objective, to evaluate the usefulness of the Stop-Bang, Berlin, and 2ABN3M questionnaires for TRS screening in these patients. Methodology: Cross-sectional, observational study, including the active cohort of the UMIC, over 18 years with HFrEF, clinically stable and informed consent. Patients with cognitive, neurological or hearing impairment with limitations when conducting the interview were excluded. Patients with other limiting or uncontrolled sleep disorders, continuous home oxygen therapy requirements, did not enter the study. Berlin, Stop-Bang, and 2ABN3M questionnaires were administered, classifying the population into high-risk, intermediate-risk, and low-risk groups of presenting SDB. All patients underwent outpatient respiratory polygraphy (RP). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize demographic variables, measures of central tendency and dispersion. SPSS statistical software was used. Results: 387 patients were included, 248 men (64.1%), mean age was 63.5 ± 0.6 years. The etiology of HF was ischemic in 41.6% of patients. The body mass index was 29.3 ± 0.3 kg/m2. LVEF was 34.2 ± 0.5, pro-BNP 1233.8 ± 137.6 pg/ml. The results of the questionnaires showed that 52.1% (198) presented a high risk of SDB according to the Berlin questionnaire. With Stop-Bang, 35.9% (139) were high risk, 42.1% (163) intermediate risk, and the remaining 22% (85) low risk. With the 2ABN3M score, 62% (240) were high risk. A total of 156 respiratory polygraphs (40.3% of the population) were performed. The cut-off point to define the presence of sleep apnea was considered to be an AHI >15. 58.3% (91) of the patients presented TRS. Of these, 95% presented obstructive apnea and 5% central apnea with periodic Cheyne-Stokes breathing. A high percentage (26%) presented AHI greater than 30. The sensitivity of the Berlin and Stop-Bang questionnaires was 75.8% and 91.2%, respectively, with a specificity of 53.8% and 24.6%. Regarding the 2ABN3M score, a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 44.6% were observed. Conclusions: The prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing in patients with HFrEF was high in our cohort and obstructive apnea predominated. Given the high sensitivity (91.2%) of the Stop-Bang questionnaire found in our study, it could be useful as a screening tool for TRS in this type of patient. The importance of investigating this pathology whose clinical presentation can be non-specific and remain underdiagnosed is highlighted.

Introdução: Os distúrbios respiratórios do sono (DRS) são altamente prevalentes em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC). A presença da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono (SAOS) determina pior prognóstico nesses pacientes. Existem questionários destinados a avaliar a probabilidade de AOS, porém nenhum foi validado em pacientes com IC. O objetivo primário deste estudo foi estabelecer a prevalência de DRS em uma coorte de pacientes com IC e fração de ejeção reduzida (ICFEr) da Unidade Multidisciplinar de IC (UMIC). Como objetivo secundário, avaliar a utilidade dos questionários Stop-Bang, Berlin e 2ABN3M para triagem de SRT nesses pacientes. Metodologia: Estudo transversal, observacional, inclui a coorte ativa da UMIC, maiores de 18 anos com ICFEr, clinicamente estável e consentimento informado. Foram excluídos pacientes com deficiência cognitiva, neurológica ou auditiva com limitações na realização da entrevista. Pacientes com outros distúrbios do sono limitantes ou descontrolados, requisitos de oxigenoterapia domiciliar contínua, não entraram no estudo. Os questionários Berlin, Stop-Bang e 2ABN3M foram aplicados, classificando a população em grupos de alto risco, risco intermediário e baixo risco de apresentar DRS. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à poligrafia respiratória (PR) ambulatorial. A estatística descritiva foi utilizada para caracterizar as variáveis ​​demográficas, medidas de tendência central e dispersão. Foi utilizado o software estatístico SPSS. Resultados: foram incluídos 387 pacientes, 248 homens (64,1%), com idade média de 63,5 ± 0,6 anos. A etiologia da IC foi isquêmica em 41,6% dos pacientes. O índice de massa corporal foi de 29,3 ± 0,3 kg/m2. FEVE foi de 34,2 ± 0,5, pro-BNP 1233,8 ± 137,6 pg/ml. Os resultados dos questionários mostraram que 52,1% (198) apresentaram alto risco de DRS de acordo com o questionário de Berlim. Com Stop-Bang, 35,9% (139) eram de alto risco, 42,1% (163) de risco intermediário e os restantes 22% (85) de baixo risco. Com a pontuação 2ABN3M, 62% (240) eram de alto risco. Foram realizados 156 polígrafos respiratórios (40,3% da população). O ponto de corte para definir a presença de apneia do sono foi considerado um IAH >15. 58,3% (91) dos pacientes apresentaram SRT. Destes, 95% apresentavam apnéia obstrutiva e 5% apnéia central com respiração Cheyne-Stokes periódica. Uma alta porcentagem (26%) apresentou IAH maior que 30. A sensibilidade dos questionários Berlin e Stop-Bang foi de 75,8% e 91,2%, respectivamente, com especificidade de 53,8% e 24,6%. Em relação ao escore 2ABN3M, observou-se sensibilidade de 71,4% e especificidade de 44,6%. Conclusões: A prevalência de distúrbios respiratórios do sono em pacientes com ICFEr foi alta em nossa coorte, com predominância de apneias obstrutivas. Dada a alta sensibilidade (91,2%) do questionário Stop-Bang encontrado em nosso estudo, ele pode ser útil como uma ferramenta de triagem para ERT nesse tipo de paciente. Ressalta-se a importância da investigação dessa patologia cuja apresentação clínica pode ser inespecífica e permanecer subdiagnosticada.

Recursos y propuestas de mejora en el manejo de la Apnea Obstructiva del Sueño en Andalucía / Resources and proposals for improvement in the management of obstructive sleep apnea in Andalusia

Título abreviado: Se exponen los recursos asistenciales del Sistema Sanitario Público de Andalucía relacionados con el diagnóstico, tratamiento y seguimiento de los pacientes con apnea obstructiva del sueño. Igualmente se describen propuestas para una optimización en el manejo de esta entidad enfatizando la necesidad de recursos y colaboración entre diferentes niveles asistenciales. Objetivo: Determinar en el Sistema Sanitario Público de Andalucía (SSPA) los recursos actuales en la apnea obstructiva del sueño (AOS) e identificar propuestas de mejora. Método: Estudio transversal, basado en encuestas realizadas en 49 hospitales del SSPA. Se registraron variables relacionadas al diagnóstico, tratamiento y seguimiento de la AOS, distinguiendo entre centros que realizaban polisomnografía y los que no. Incluimos un apartado sobre propuestas de mejora. Resultados: Un 97% de los centros realizan poligrafía y un 29% polisomnografía, y sólo el 39,5% disponen de consulta específica. La demora diagnóstica para la poligrafía es de 169 ± 163,4 días y para la polisomnografía de 173 ± 152,5 días. Se realizan un total de 1.113 ± 1.004,6 pruebas por 100.000 habitantes y año, de ellas 235 ± 166,2 son poligrafías diagnósticas. La presión eficaz se titula en un 49% con auto-CPAP y el control terapéutico lo realiza frecuentemente la empresa suministradora (77%). Entre las propuestas de mejora, destacan la falta de un protocolo de derivación y coordinación entre diferentes niveles asistenciales (90% de los encuestados), y la demora diagnóstica, atribuible en un 63% de los casos al déficit de recursos físicos y de personal. Conclusión: El número de pruebas diagnósticas aún son insuficientes y la demora diagnóstica es excesiva. Sobre todo, en el control terapéutico la empresa suministradora tiene un papel relevante. Se propone la realización de protocolos entre diferentes unidades asistenciales y aumentar los recursos actuales. (AU)

Short title: The healthcare resources of the Andalusian Public Health System related to the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with obstructive sleep apnea are presented. Proposals for optimizing the management of this entity are also described, emphasizing the need for resources and collaboration between different levels of care. Objective: Determine the current resources in the Public Health System of Andalusia (SSPA) in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and identify proposals for improvement. Method: Cross-sectional study, based on surveys conducted in 49 SSPA hospitals. Variables related to the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of OSA were recorded, distinguishing between centers that performed polysomnography and those that did not. We include a section on proposals for improvement. Results: 97% of the centers perform polygraphy and 29% polysomnography, and only 39.5% have a specific consultation. The diagnostic delay for polygraphy is 169 ± 163.4 days and for polysomnography 173 ± 152.5 days. A total of 1,113 ± 1,004.6 tests are performed per 100,000 inhabitants per year, of which 235 ± 166.2 are diagnostic polygraphs. The effective pressure is titrated in 49% with auto-CPAP and therapeutic control is frequently carried out by the supplying company (77%). Among the proposals for improvement, the lack of a protocol for referral and coordination between different levels of care (90% of those surveyed), and the diagnostic delay, attributable in 63% of cases to the lack of physical and personnel resources, stand out. Conclusion: The number of diagnostic tests are still insufficient and the diagnostic delay is excessive. Above all, in therapeutic control, the supplier company has a relevant role. It is proposed to carry out protocols between different care units and increase current resources

Prevalencia de trastornos respiratorios del sueño en pacientes asmáticos que se controlan en el Hospital Roberto del Río: estudio piloto / Prevalence of sleep breathing disorders in asthmatic patients monitored at Roberto del Río Hospital: a pilot study

Introducción. El asma es una de las enfermedades crónicas más frecuentes en niños. Múltiples estudios han sugerido que en la infancia presenta una asociación significativa con los trastornos respiratorios del sueño, con una prevalencia en niños asmáticos de un 24%. El objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia de trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS) en pacientes con asma controlados en un hospital pediátrico (6-15 años). Pacientes y Método. Estudio transversal descriptivo. Se aplicaron los cuestionarios de sueño pediátrico validado en español (pediatric sleep questionnaire, PSQ) y el Cuestionario de Control del Asma en Niños (CAN) a los padres de los niños con diagnósticos de asma controlados en Hospital Roberto del Río, vía telefónica y vía email. Resultados: La prevalencia de TRS fue de 34,8%. Un 20% presenta mal control de asma definido como CAN >8. Un 58,1% de los padres reportaron sobrepeso en los pacientes Conclusiones: la prevalencia de TRS en los niños estudiados es alta y obliga a investigar en cada consulta por estos síntomas. Aplicar la encuesta en cada consulta, de forma online podría aportar al conocimiento de estos pacientes y mantener la prevalencia del problema actualizada, para focalizar las intervenciones apropiadas.

Introduction. Asthma is one of the most frequent chronic diseases in children, multiple studies have suggested that in childhood it presents a significant association with sleep-disordered breathing, with a prevalence in asthmatic children of 24%.The objective was to determine the prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing (RRT) in patients with asthma controlled in a pediatric hospital (6-15 years). Patients and Methods. Descriptive cross-sectional study. The pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) and the Child Asthma Control Questionnaire (CAN) were applied to the parents of children with controlled asthma diagnoses at Hospital Roberto del Río, by telephone and via e-mail. Results: The prevalence of RRT was 34.8%. 20% have poor asthma control defined as CAN> 8. 58.1% of parents reported overweight in patients Conclusions: the prevalence of RRT in the children studied is high and makes it necessary to investigate these symptoms at each visit. Applying the survey in each consultation, online, could contribute to the knowledge of these patients and keep the prevalence of the problem updated, in order to focalized the interventions.

Síndrome de apneas-hipopneas durante el sueño en obesos y no obesos: características clínicas, polisomnográficas y metabólicas / Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome in the obese and non-obese: clinical, polysomnographical and clinical characteristics

Introducción:El síndrome de apneas-hipopneas del sueño (SAHS) y la obesidad infantil son dos entidades con alta prevalencia que constituyen un problema de salud pública.Objetivo: Analizar la interacción entre ambas, comparando grupos de niños que presentaban o no ambas condiciones.Pacientes y metodología: Estudio prospectivo en niños (3-14 años), remitidos a la «Unidad Multidisciplinar de Sueño» por sospecha de SAHS, entre el 1/11/2015 y el 1/08/2017. Se evaluaron los siguientes parámetros: antropometría, síntomas, tensión arterial, exploración otorrinolaringológica, polisomnografía (PSG nocturna) y estudio analítico.Resultados: Se valoraron 67 niños, 64% no obesos y 36% obesos.Se observó que los obesos tenían más edad (p<0,001), dormían menos horas (p=0,028), realizaban menos ejercicio físico (p=0,029), comían menos en comedor escolar (p=0,009), tenían menor eficiencia del sueño y presentaban valores alterados en el metabolismo hidrocarbonado y lipídico.Los niños que presentaban SAHS tenían menor edad (p=0,010), un mayor porcentaje de somnolencia diurna (p=0,001) y respiración bucal (p=0,006), mayor percentil de tensión arterial diastólica (p=0,019) y menor IGF-1 (p=0,003) que los que no presentaban SAHS.La comparación de los grupos de SAHS no obesos frente SAHS obesos, reveló que los primeros eran de menor edad (p=0,010), roncaban más (p=0,012), tenían mayor severidad del SAHS (IAH 13,1 vs. 5,4, p=0,041) y mayor GOT (p≤0,001) y en el segundo grupo, se objetivó que dormían menos horas (p=0,038) y mostraban valores mayores de glucosa (p=0,039), insulina (p<0,001) y HOMA (p<0,001). (AU)

Introduction: Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) and childhood obesity are la high prevalence conditions that represent a public health challenge.Objective: To analyse the association between both and comparing child groups that had or did not have both conditions.Patients and methods: A prospective study in children (3-14 years), referred to the “Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit” due to suspected SAHS, between 1 November 2015 and 1 August 2017. The following parameters were evaluated: anthropometry, symptoms, blood pressure, ear, nose, and throat examination, polysomnography (nocturnal PSG) and laboratory tests.Results: A total of 67 children were evaluated (64% non-obese and 36% obese.It was observed that the obese were older (P<.001), slept less hours (P=.028), did less physical exercise (P=.029), ate less in the school dining room (P=.009), had la lower sleep efficiency, and had abnormal values in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.The children with SAHS were younger (P=.010), a high percentage of daytime sleepiness (P=.001), and breathing through the mouth (P=.006), greater percentile of diastolic blood pressure (P=.019) and a lower IGF-1 (P=.003) than those that did not have SAHS. (AU) The comparison of the SAHS non-obese and SAHS obese groups, showed that the first group were younger (P=.010), snored more (P=.012), had a more severe SAHS (IAH 13.1 vs. 5.4, P=.041), and a higher GOT (P<.001). In the second group, they slept less hours P=.038) and showed lower values of glucose (P=.039), insulin (P<.001), and HOMA (P<.001).

Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome in the obese and non-obese: Clinical, polysomnographical and clinical characteristics.

INTRODUCTION: Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) and childhood obesity are two high prevalence conditions that represent a public health challenge. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the association between both and comparing child groups that had or did not have both conditions. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective study in children (3-14 years), referred to the "Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit" due to suspected SAHS, between 1 November 2015 and 1 August 2017. The following parameters were evaluated: anthropometry, symptoms, blood pressure, ear, nose, and throat examination, polysomnography (nocturnal PSG) and laboratory tests. RESULTS: A total of 67 children were evaluated (64% non-obese (NOb) and 36% obese (Ob). It was observed that the Ob were older (P < .001), slept less hours (P = .028), did less physical exercise (P = .029), ate less in the school dining room (P = .009), had la lower sleep efficiency, and had abnormal values in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The children with SAHS were younger (P = .010), a high percentage of daytime sleepiness (P = .001), and breathing through the mouth (P = .006), greater percentile of diastolic blood pressure (P = .019) and a lower IGF-1 (P = .003) than those that did not have SAHS. The comparison of the SAHS NOb and SAHS Ob groups, showed that the first group were younger (P = .010), snored more (P = .012), had a more severe SAHS (IAH 13.1 vs 5.4, P = .041), and a higher GOT (P < .001). In the second group, they slept less hours P = .038) and showed lower values of glucose (P = .039), insulin (P < .001), and HOMA (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The behaviour of SAHS is different in obese children and non-obese children, with differences in age, clinical characteristics, severity of SAHS, and metabolic changes. The children diagnosed with SAHS were in the higher percentile of diastolic blood pressure. Obesity was associated with worse sleep quality, and changes in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

Cirugía del sueño: Definición de una especialidad emergente, propuesta de una clasificación anatomofuncional integral e indicaciones

Resumen Los trastornos respiratorios del sueño (ronquido primario y síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño) han sido tratados mediante múltiples modalidades a lo largo de la historia. Sin embargo, la cirugía de la vía aérea superior siempre ha estado presente, dando cabida a la aparición de múltiples técnicas para este fin. El estudio adecuado de los sitios anatómicos de estrechez o colapso de la vía aérea superior y sus contribuyentes (bajo el concepto de topodiagnóstico) y el mejor entendimiento de los mecanismos de acción de los diferentes procedimientos descritos, ha permitido el nacimiento de una nueva disciplina, dedicada al manejo quirúrgico planificado de este grupo de patologías: la cirugía del sueño.

Abstract Sleep-related breathing disorders (primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome) have been treated with multiple modalities throughout history. However, upper airway surgery has always been present, giving appearance of multiple techniques for this purpose. The adequate study of the anatomical sites of upper airway narrowness or collapse and its contributors (under the concept of topodiagnosis) and a better understanding of the different procedures, has allowed the birth of a new discipline, dedicated to a planned surgical management for this group of pathologies: sleep surgery.

Comparación de dos cuestionarios específicos de calidad de vida en población pediátrica con patología adenoamigdalar / Comparison of two specific quality of life questionnaires in a paediatric population with adenotonsillar disease

Introducción y objetivo: El T-14 y el TAHSI son cuestionarios específicos validados y fiables para medir la calidad de vida en pacientes pediátricos con patología adenoamigdalar. El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo comparar las versiones adaptadas y validadas en lengua española de estos dos cuestionarios (T-14-s y s-TAHSI) con la finalidad de valorar la adopción preferente de alguno de ellos en nuestro medio.Material y MétodosPara determinar la existencia de una correlación entre ambos instrumentos, se realizó un estudio prospectivo transversal, multicéntrico, entre noviembre de 2015 y abril de 2016. Se incluyeron consecutivamente sujetos de dos a 16 años de edad con indicación de cirugía adenoamigdalar y controles sanos. Los padres o tutores legales respondieron los cuestionarios T-14-s y s-TAHSI inicialmente, pasadas dos-seis semanas y a los seis meses de la cirugía. Se compararon las puntuaciones de T-14-s y s-TAHSI de toda la muestra globalmente, de los subgrupos de pacientes y controles por separado y, finalmente, del grupo de pacientes a los seis meses de la cirugía, mediante el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Se calculó la proporción de variabilidad compartida entre ambos test.ResultadosSe estudiaron 100 sujetos (50 pacientes y 50 controles). La correlación global que presentaron ambos cuestionarios fue muy alta (0,97), con un nivel de significación de p < 0,01. La proporción de variabilidad compartida fue muy elevada, del 94%. Los resultados se mantuvieron al comparar los cuestionarios en las subpoblaciones de casos y controles, así como los cuestionarios postoperatorios.ConclusiónLos cuestionarios de calidad de vida para pacientes pediátricos con patología adenoamigdalar, T-14-s y s-TAHSI, presentan una alta correlación que permite el uso equivalente de ambos en nuestro medio. (AU)

Introduction and objective: T-14 and TAHSI are validated and reliable specific questionnaires which measure the quality of life in paediatric patients with adenotonsillar disease. The present study aims to compare the adapted and validated versions in Spanish of these two questionnaires (T-14-s and s-TAHSI) in order to assess the preferential use of either of them in our environment.Material and MethodsA multicentre prospective cross-sectional study was carried out between November 2015 and April 2016, to determine the possible correlation between these two instruments. Subjects aged from 2 to 16 years with indication for adenotonsillar surgery and healthy controls, were consecutively included. Parents or caregivers of these children completed T-14-s and s-TAHSI questionnaires initially, after 2-6 weeks and at 6 months after surgery. T-14-s and s-TAHSI scores of the entire sample were compared globally, patient and control subgroups were compared separately and finally, compared in the group of patients at 6 months from surgery, using Pearson correlation coefficient. The proportion of variability shared between both tests was calculated.ResultsA hundred subjects (50 cases and 50 controls) were studied. The overall correlation presented by both questionnaires was very high (0.97) with a significance level of p < .01. The proportion of shared variability was 94%, very high. The results were maintained when comparing the questionnaires in the subpopulations of cases and controls, as well as the postoperative questionnaires.ConclusionQuality of life questionnaires for paediatric patients with adenotonsillar pathology, T-14-s and s-TAHSI, showed high correlation and allows the equivalent use of both in our environment. (AU)

Comparison of two specific quality of life questionnaires in a paediatric population with adenotonsillar disease. / Comparación de dos cuestionarios específicos de calidad de vida en población pediátrica con patología adenoamigdalar.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: T-14 and TAHSI are validated and reliable specific questionnaires which measure the quality of life in paediatric patients with adenotonsillar disease. The present study aims to compare the adapted and validated versions in Spanish of these two questionnaires (T-14-s and s-TAHSI) in order to assess the preferential use of either of them in our environment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A multicentre prospective cross-sectional study was carried out between November 2015 and April 2016, to determine the possible correlation between these two instruments. Subjects aged from 2 to 16 years with indication for adenotonsillar surgery and healthy controls, were consecutively included. Parents or caregivers of these children completed T-14-s and s-TAHSI questionnaires initially, after 2-6 weeks and at 6 months after surgery. T-14-s and s-TAHSI scores of the entire sample were compared globally, patient and control subgroups were compared separately and finally, compared in the group of patients at 6 months from surgery, using Pearson correlation coefficient. The proportion of variability shared between both tests was calculated. RESULTS: A hundred subjects (50 cases and 50 controls) were studied. The overall correlation presented by both questionnaires was very high (0.97) with a significance level of p < .01. The proportion of shared variability was 94%, very high. The results were maintained when comparing the questionnaires in the subpopulations of cases and controls, as well as the postoperative questionnaires. CONCLUSION: Quality of life questionnaires for paediatric patients with adenotonsillar pathology, T-14-s and s-TAHSI, showed high correlation and allows the equivalent use of both in our environment.

Poligrafía pediátrica: experiencia de 6 años / Pediatric polygraphy: a 6-year experience

INTRODUCCIÓN: El diagnóstico precoz de los Trastornos Respiratorios del Sueño (TRS) puede permitir una intervención oportuna. La poligrafía (PG) es una alternativa confiable y accesible en la actualidad. OBJETIVO: Describir y analizar PG de niños > 1 año con sospecha de TRS. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO: Se incluyeron PG de niños y adolescentes > 1 año de edad con sospecha de TRS, desde diciembre de 2011 hasta agosto de 2017 provenientes de la ciudad de Concepcion, Chile. Se recopilaron datos demo gráficos, clínicos y variables poligráficas. Estadística descriptiva, expresando resultados en mediana y rango. Se determinó asociación entre índice de apnea hipopnea (IAH) y saturación mediante Rho de Spearman; considerando significancia p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 190 estudios. Edad 7,9 años (1,0-20,6), varones 61%. Diagnósticos: enfermedades neuromusculares (ENM) (24,2%), daño pulmonar crónico (21,1%), obstrucción de vía aérea superior (OVAS) (19,5%), daño neurológico (11%), síndrome de Down (8,9%) malformaciones VAS (7,4%), hipoventilación central (3,7%), obesidad (2,6%) y otros (1,6%). El 55,3% de las PG resultaron alteradas; síndrome de apnea hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) leve en 53,3%, moderado 30,5% y severo 16,2%. No se observaron diferencias significativas en IAH entre grupos de patologías (p = 0,032), destacando un mayor IAH en Obesidad 9,0 (0,41-51) y ENM 23,9 (0,4-36,6). Se constató asociación entre IAH y parámetros de saturación; saturación promedio (rho = -0,425; p = 0,001); mínima (rho = -0,654; p = 0,001); y saturación bajo 90% (rho = 0,323; p = 0,001) en la totalidad de la muestra. DISCUSIÓN: Existió un alto porcentaje de SAHOS en pacientes pediátricos de riesgo, en especial en aquellos con ENM y obesidad. La PG es una herramienta accesible e implementable en un hospital público; situación potencialmente extrapolable a otros centros asistenciales.

INTRODUCTION: The early diagnosis of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) may allow proper intervention. Currently, polygraphy (PG) is a reliable and accessible alternative. OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the PG of children > 1 year old with suspicion of SDB. PATIENTS AND METHOD: PG of children > 1 year old and adolescents from Concepcion, Chile, with suspected SDB were included, from December 2011 to August 2017. Demographic, clinical and polygraphic variables were collected. It was used descriptive sta tistics, expressing results in median and range. The association between apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation was determined by Spearman's Rho, considering significance of p < 0.05. RESULTS: 190 studies were analyzed. Age 7.9 years old (1.0-20.6), 61% males. Diagnosis: neuromuscular disease (NMD) (24.2%), chronic lung damage (21.1%), upper airway obstruction (UAO) (19.5%), neurological damage (11%), Down syndrome (8.9%), upper airway malformations (7.4%), central hypoventilation (3.7%), obesity (2.6%), and others (1.6%). 55.3% were altered PG, with 53.3% of mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS), 30.5% moderate, and 16.2% severe. There were no significant differences in AHI between groups of pathologies (p = 0.032), highlighting a higher AHI in obese patients 9 (0.41-51), and those with NMD 23.9 (0.4-36.6). It was found asso ciation between AHI and oxygen saturation parameters: mean saturation (rho = -0.425; p = 0.001), minimum (rho = -0.654; p = 0.001), and oxygen saturation below 90% (rho = 0.323; p = 0.001) in the whole sample. DISCUSSION: There was a high percentage of OSAHS in at-risk pediatric patients, especially in those with NMD and obesity. PG is an accessible and implementable tool in a public hospital, a situation that can potentially be extrapolated to other healthcare centers.

Expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty: Usefulness of DISE. / Faringoplastia de expansión: utilidad de la somnoscopia (DISE).

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was first to present the indications and results using expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty to treat obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS). And second, to compare the findings of drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) before and after the surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study design was a prospective cohort of patients surgically treated between 2015 and 2016. All patients were diagnosed with mild to severe obstructive sleep apnoea and did not tolerate CPAP. All had pre- and post-surgery DISE and polysomnography. The inclusion criteria were age, between 18 years and 70 years, small tonsils (sizes 1 and 2), Friedman II and III clinical stage, and lateral collapse in preoperative DISE. We performed surgery to the palate only, using expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty. RESULTS: Seventeen patients were included, 52.94% had severe OSAHS. Average age was 42 years, average body mass index was 28. The surgical success rate according to Sher criteria was 82.35%. 41.17% had a postoperative apnoea-hypopnoea index of less than 10. Seventy-five percent of the patients had no further need for CPAP. CONCLUSION: Expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty is a safe technique for treating OSAHS, in patients with small tonsils, Friedman grade I and II and collapse of lateral walls in DISE, in the absence of multilevel collapse. The postoperative DISE showed improvement of the lateral collapse was achieved with the expansion.

Trastornos respiratorios del sueño en niños escolares chilenos: prevalencia y factores de riesgo / Prevalence and risk factors for sleep-disordered breathing in chilean schoolchildren

Resumen: Objetivos: Describir la prevalencia de trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS) en escolares chilenos y estudiar factores de riesgo asociados. Pacientes y Método: Estudio transversal y descriptivo. Se enviaron cuestionarios a los padres de niños de 1° año básico de colegios de la Región Metropolitana (Santiago), Región del Biobío (Concepción, Chillán, Yumbel) y Región de Magallanes (Porvenir y Puerto Natales). Se consignaron datos antropométricos, desempeño escolar, características del hogar, contaminantes intradomiciliarios, antecedentes médicos y síntomas actuales de asma, rinitis alérgica y dermatitis atópica. Se determinó estado nutricional según zIMC. Se aplicó un cuestionario de sue ño pediátrico validado en español (pediatric sleep questionnaire, PSQ). Resultados: 564 encuestas fueron analizadas, la edad mediana fue 6 años (rango 5 a 9), 44,9% sexo masculino. La prevalencia de TRS fue 17,7% (n = 100): 6% en Vitacura (Metropolitana), 28,7% en Chillán (Biobío) y 36,4% en Puerto Natales (Magallanes) (p = 0,001). El grupo con TRS tuvo mayor proporción de hombres (54,5 vs 42,8%, p = 0,033), menor rendimiento académico (promedio general 6,36 ± 0,48 vs 6,56 ± 0,34, p = 0,001), menor educación superior materna (44,4 vs 69,9%, p = 0,001) y mayor exposición a contaminantes intradomiciliarios que aquellos sin TRS. Posterior al análisis multivariado se mantu vieron como predictor de TRS el haber presentado síntomas de rinitis en últimos 12 meses (OR 4,79; IC 95% 2,20-10,43) y el nivel educacional básico o medio de la madre (OR 3,51; IC 95% 1,53-8,02). Conclusiones: Los escolares chilenos presentan una alta prevalencia de TRS, con diferencias demo gráficas. Se asoció a factores de riesgo social, a factores más específicos de daño pulmonar y a peor cantidad y calidad del sueño.

Abstract: Objectives: To describe the prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in Chilean schoolchil dren and study associated risk factors. Patients and Method: We carried out a transversal and des criptive study. Questionnaires were sent to the parents of children attending first year of elementary school in the Metropolitan Region (Santiago), the Biobío Region (Concepción, Chillán, Yumbel) and the Magallanes Region (Porvenir and Puerto Natales). Anthropometric data, school performan ce, household characteristics, indoor pollutants, medical history, and current symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis were recorded. The nutritional status was determined accor ding to z-BMI. A pediatric sleep questionnaire validated in Spanish (PSQ) was applied. Results: 564 questionnaires were analyzed, the median age was six years (range 5 to 9), 44.9% male. The SDB prevalence was 17.7% (n = 100): 6% in Vitacura (Metropolitan Region), 28.7% in Chillán (Biobío Region), and 36.4% in Puerto Natales (Magallanes Region) (p = 0.001). The group with SDB had a higher proportion of men (54.5 vs 42.8%, p = 0.033), lower academic performance (overall grade point average 6.36 ± 0.48 vs 6.56 ± 0.34, p = 0.001), lower maternal higher education (44.4% vs 69.9%, p = 0.001), and higher exposure to indoor pollutants than those without SDB. After the multivariate analysis, symptoms of rhinitis in the last 12 months (OR 4.79, 95% CI 2.20-10.43) and lower maternal educational level (OR 3.51; 95% CI 1.53-8.02) remained as predictors of SDB. Con clusions: Chilean schoolchildren have a high prevalence of SDB with demographic differences. It was associated with social risk factors, more specific factors of lung damage, and worse sleep quality and quantity.

Prognostic value of nocturnal pulse oximetry in patients with heart failure. / Valor pronóstico de la pulsioximetría nocturna en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze the prognostic value of nocturnal hypoxemia measured with portable nocturnal pulse-oximetry in patients hospitalized due to heart failure and its relation to mortality and hospital readmission. METHODS: We included 38 patients who were admitted consecutively to our unit with the diagnosis of decompensated heart failure. Pulse-oximetry was considered positive for hypoxemia when more than 10 desaturations per hour were recorded during sleep. Follow-up was performed for 30.3 (standard deviation [SD] 14.2) months, the main objective being a combined endpoint of all-cause mortality and hospital readmission due to heart failure. RESULTS: The average age was 70.7 (SD 10.7) years, 63.3% were males. Pulse-oximetry was considered positive for hypoxemia in 27 (71%) patients. Patients with positive pulse-oximetry had the most frequent endpoint (9.1% [1] vs. 61.5% [16], P = 0.003). After multivariate analysis, continuous nocturnal hypoxemia was related to the combined endpoint (HR = 8.37, 1.19-68.4, P = 0.03). DISCUSSION: Patients hospitalized for heart failure and nocturnal hypoxemia measured with portable pulse-oximeter have an increased risk of hospital readmission and death.

Síndrome de apneas del sueño: revisión de 25 años de experiencia / Sleep apnea syndrome: review of 25 years of experience / Síndrome da apnéia do sono: revisão de 25 anos de experiência

El conocimiento científico y clínico sobre los trastornos respiratorios del sueño se ha desarrollado de manera acelerada en las últimas décadas. El objetivo de este estudio es presentar la experiencia adquirida en nuestro país, en el diagnóstico y tratamiento del síndrome de apneas del sueño de tipo obstructivo, durante el desarrollo de una nueva disciplina en el ámbito de la neumología. Se revisaron los registros de 3109 pacientes; 447 con historias clínicas electrónicas y cuestionarios para cuantificación de síntomas y 1779 polisomnografías de pacientes con apneas de tipo obstructivo. Se presenta la evolución de la referencia de pacientes, las características demográficas (en especial el aumento de la prevalencia en jóvenes) y los hallazgos clínicos más frecuentes. Se destacan los factores de riesgo relevantes: obesidad y su relación con la severidad, enfermedades endocrinas y desplazamiento cefálico de fluidos. Se destaca el modo de acceso y la adherencia al tratamiento. La implementación de unidades clínicas de sueño permitió la referencia de pacientes para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento, dando lugar a una nueva disciplina de la neumología. La prevalencia de las apneas obstructivas del sueño es muy elevada, con progresivo y sostenido incremento. El tratamiento con aplicación de presión nasal no invasiva es factible. Aunque con distintos grados de accesibilidad y adherencia, ha permitido la corrección del trastorno respiratorio del sueño más relevante.

Scientific and clinical knowledge on sleep-disordered breathing has developed at an accelerated pace in the last decades. The objective of this study is to present the experience gained in our country in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome during the development of a new discipline in the field of pneumology. Clinical records of 3109 patients were reviewed; 447 with electronic medical records and questionnaires for quantification of symptoms and 1779 polysomnographies of patients with obstructive apneas. The time evolution of the patient referral, the demographic characteristics (especially the increase in the prevalence in young people) and the most frequent clinical findings are presented. We highlight the relevant risk factors: obesity and its relationship with severity, endocrine diseases and cephalic fluid displacement. Access mode and adherence to treatment are highlighted. The implementation of sleep clinics allowed the referral of patients for diagnosis and treatment, giving rise to a new discipline of pneumology. The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea is high, with progressive and sustained increase. Treatment with non-invasive nasal pressure application is feasible. Although with different degrees of accessibility and adherence, it has allowed the correction of the most relevant respiratory sleep disorder

O conhecimento científico e clínico sobre os transtornos respiratórios do sono desenvolveu-se rapidamente nas últimas décadas. O objetivo deste estudo é apresentar a experiência adquirida em nosso país no diagnóstico e tratamento da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono durante o desenvolvimento de uma nova disciplina no campo da pneumologia. Os registros de 3109 pacientes foram revisados; 447 com registros médicos eletrônicos e questionários para quantificação de sintomas e 1779 polissonografias de pacientes com apnéia obstrutiva. Apresentamos a evolução da referência do paciente, as características demográficas (especialmente o aumento da prevalência em jovens) e os achados clínicos mais freqüentes. Destacamos os fatores de risco relevantes: obesidade e sua relação com severidade, doenças endócrinas e deslocamento do cefálico de fluídos. O modo de acesso e a adesão ao tratamento são destacados. A implementação de unidades de sono clínicas permitiu a referência de pacientes para diagnóstico e tratamento, dando origem a uma nova disciplina de pneumologia. A prevalência da apneia obstrutiva do sono é muito alta, com aumento progressivo e sustentado. O tratamento com pressão nasal não invasiva é viável. Embora com diferentes graus de acessibilidade e adesão, permitiu a correção do transtorno do sono respiratório mais relevante.

Epidemiología de los trastornos respiratorios del sueño en pediatría / Epidemiology of pediatric respiratory sleep disorders

Pediatric sleep medicine has shown a considerable development during the last decades; however, sleep disorders epidemiology is varied and limited, mainly by the various definitions used. This articucle refers to prevalence data obtained by studies that include medical history, questionnaires and/or sleep studies. It includes the analysis of factors that may influence its epidemiology: age, gender, obesity, prenatal factores, ethnicity, socieconomic status and influence of some respiratory diseses susch as asthma and rhinitis. In addiction, aspects related to the natural evolution of respiratorty sleep disorders are described

La medicina del sueño pediátrica ha avanzado considerablemente durante las últimas décadas; sin embargo la evidencia epidemiológica es variada y limitada, principalmente por las diversas definiciones empleadas. El presente artículo profundiza sobre aspectos de prvalencia mediante estudios de anamnesis, cuestionarios y/o estudios de sueño; se incluye el análisis de factores que pueden influir en su epidemiología; edad, género, obesidad, factores prenatales, etnia genética, nivel socioeconómico e influencia de algunas enfermedades respiratorias como asma y rinitis. Adicionalmente, se describen aspectos relacionados con la evolución natural de los trastornos respiratorios del sueño

Utilidad de los cuestionarios de tamizaje para trastornos respiratorios del sueño en pediatría / Utility of screening questionnaires for sleep respiratory disorders in pediatrics

The presence of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) in pediatric population has been associated with several and relevant health problems. Unfortunatly, most of SDB cases remain under diagnosed due to diferent factors incluiding lack of available and good diagnostic tools. Sleep questionnaires have emerged as an alternative screening tool for SDB. Depending on specific measurement purpose, sleep questionnaires may assess different aspects that are related to SDB or sleep duration and quality. Among these questionnaires, the "Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire" (PSQ) is a validated diagnostic tool for SDB worldwide. in Chile, PSQ's diagnostic accuracy was evaluated in 83 children between 0 and 15 years old, showing an area under curve (AUC) 0.687 (CI 95 percent 0.567-0.808), a sensibility 0.78 and specificity 0.72. Based on information described in this review, utlization of sleep screening questionnaire is feasible, leading to an alternative tool to detect SDB in our national clinical context and during research process in sleep medicine

La presencia de trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS) en la població pediátrica ha sido asociada a múltiples e importantes problemas de salud. Desafortunadamente, gran parte de los TRS continúan siendo subdiagnosticados debido a diferentes factores tales como reducida disponibilidad para la realización de exámenes de referencia en la población o limitadas herramientas diagnósticas. Intentando superar estas barreras, la utilización de cuestionarios como herramienta diagnóstica emerge como una alternativa de tamizaje para la detección de lso TRS. Dependiendo de los parámetros a evaluar, se pueden encontrar cuestionarios quw valoran aspectos relacionados a los TRS o bien parámetros específicos del sueño como su duración o calidad. En la actualidad el cuestionario "Pediatric sleep Questionnaire" (PSQ) constituye una de las herramientas validadas para la detección de TRS a nivel mundial. En Chile, la exactitud diagnóstica del PSQ fue evaluada en 83 niños entre 0 y 15 años, observando un área bajo la curva (AUC) de 0.687 (IC95 percent 0.567-0.808), una sensibilidad de 0.78 y una especificidad de 0.72. Basado en la información presentada en este trabajo, la apliación de cuestionarios de tamizaje, específicamente el PSQ es factible en la población pediátrica, constituyendo una alternativa para la detección de los TRS en el contexto clínico nacional y durante el proceso de investigación en medicina del sueño

Obesidad y sueño / Obesity and sleep

The progress of the obesity epidemic in children and adolescents and its close relationship with sleep and their comorbidities are a reason for growing concern. In this articule we review the epidemiology, prenantal, and postnatal risk factors of obesity, and associated comorbidities, such as: metabolic syndrome; chronic pro-inflammatory state and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), with the involved pathophysiological mechanisms. We also analyze the links between obesity and SDB, the consequences of this association, in terms of enhancing the damage to physical and psychological health and the main therapeutic available measures

El avance de la epidemia de la obesidad en niños y adolescentes, su estrecha relación con el sueño y sus comorbilidades son motivo de una preocupación creciente. En este artículo revisaremos la epidemiología y factores de riesgo prenatales y postnatales de la obesidad. y las comorbilidades asociadas, tales como: síndrome metabólico, estado pro-inflamatorio crónico y trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS), con los mecanismos fisiopatológicos involucrados. También analizaremod las interconexiones entre la obesidad y los TRS, las consecuencias de esta asociación, en cuanto a potenciarel daño a la salud física y psicológica y las principales medidad terapéuticas disponibles

Trastornos respiratorios del sueño en niños con síndrome de Down / Sleep disorder breathing in children with Down syndrome

Respiratory sleep disorders in children with Down syndrome (DS) have a high prevalence and are related to anatomical and functional characteristics of this syndrome. In this children we should have a high index of suspicion of sleep breathing disorders, diagnose and treat them in order to achieve their full potential in terms of physical and cogntive health

Los trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS) en niños con síndrome de Down (SD) tienen una alta prevalencia y estan relacionados con características estructurales y funcionales propias de la enfermedad. En el SD se debe mantener un alto índice de sospecha de los TRS, diagnosticarlos y tratarlos con el fin que los pacientes puedan alcanzar su pleno potencial en términos de salud física y cognitiva

Estudios de sueño en pacientes con enfermedades neuromusculares / Sleep breathing disorders in children with neuromuscular diseases

Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is frencuent en pediatric patients with neuromuscular diseases, generated by different should be conduced early and with a preset frecuency, even more if there is the clinical suspicion of SDB and respiratory function imparment. There are different diagnostic studies, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Polysomnography is considered the reference standard and alternatively, pólygraphy has shown a high level of correlation with respiratory events

Los trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS) son frecuentes en los pacientes pediátricos con enfermedades neuromusculares, siendo generados por diversos mecanismos fisiopatológicos que usualmente llevan a hipoventilación y síndrome de apnea hipopnea obstructiva del sueño. la indicación de estudio debe ser precoz y con una periocidad prestablecida, más aún frente a la sospecha clínica del TRS y al constatar alteraciones funcionales respiratorias. Existen disitintos estudios para su diagnóstico y seguimiento, incluso en pacientes con soporte ventilatorio no invasivo; cadas uno con ventajas e inconvenientes particulares. Destaca la polisomnografía, como estándar de referencia y como alternativa, la poligrafía que ha demostrado tener un alto índice de correlación con eventos respiratorios

Poligrafía en niños con enfermedad neuromuscular / Polygraphy in children with neuromuscular disease

Introduction: A high prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) has been reported in neuromuscular disease (NMD) patients. Our aim was to describe the results of sleep studies performed by overnight polygraphy in pediatric ward of a public hospital from Concepción, Chile. Additionally, we purposed to define its utility in the treatment of children with NMD. Methods: Records of NMD patients admitted at G. Grant Benavente Hospital, from 2011 to 2015 were considered. The therapeutic approaches were classified as: non invasive ventilation, surgical treatment and follow up. Results: From 36 patients initially admitted in the study 5 were excluded. Patients median age was 10 years-old (range: 0.3-19), 74% (n = 23) were males. Diagnosis were: Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 12 patients (39%), Myelomeningocele in 6 (19%), Hypotonic syndrome in 5 (16%), Miopathy in 3 (10%), Spinal muscular atrohpy in 3 (10%) and other NMD in 2 patients (6%). Median of polygraphy valid time was 7.3 h (range:4.3-10.5). Median of mean values of O2 saturation was 97% (range: 91-99%) and median of minimum O2 saturation was 90% (51-95%). Six polygraphies (19%) were normal and 25 (81%) showed some degree of SDB. From this group 60% had a mild, 28% (n = 7) had a moderate and 12% (n = 3) presented a severe SDB. Fifteen patients (65%) were under non invasive ventilation, nine (29%) of them received medical treatment and two of them (6%) surgical treatment. There was no difference between the magnitude of SDB and therapeutic approach. Moreover, no association between the severity of SDB and therapeutic approach was found. Conclusion: Polygraphy allows objective diagnosis of SDB in children with NMD and is a suitable tool to define therapeutic conducts.

Introducción: Los pacientes con enfermedades neuromusculares (ENM) presentan una alta prevalencia de trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS). El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los resultados de estudios poligráficos y mostrar su utilidad para el establecimiento de conductas terapéuticas en niños con ENM de un hospital público de Chile. Metodología: Se consideraron registros de PG de niños con ENM. Las conductas terapéuticas fueron clasificadas como: asistencia ventilatoria no invasiva (AVNI), cirugía y observación y seguimiento. Los resultados se expresan en mediana y rango. Los tests de Kruskal-Wallis y χ2 fueron empleados. Fue considerado significativo unp < 0,05. Resultados: Al estudio ingresan 36 pacientes, siendo excluidos 5, la mediana de edad fue 10 años (0,3-19), 74% varones. Diagnósticos: Distrofia neuromuscular de Duchenne 39% (n = 12), Mielomeningocele 19% (n = 6), Síndrome hipotónico 16% (n=5), Miopatia 10% (n = 3), Atrofia espinal 10% (n = 3), otros 6% (n = 2). El tiempo validado de la poligrafía fue 7,3 h (4,3-10,5), la mediana de la saturación de O2 promedio fue 97% (91-99) y de la saturación de O2 mínima 90% (51-95). Las poligrafías fueron normales en 6 pacientes (19%) y sugerentes de TRS en 25 (81%). Entre ellas se consideró SAHOS leve 60% (n = 15), moderado 28% (n = 7) y severo 12% (n = 3). En 20 pacientes (65%) se decidió iniciar AVNI, en 9 (29%) observación y seguimiento y en 2 (6%) tratamiento quirúrgico. No existió asociación entre la categorización de gravedad de SAHOS y conducta terapéutica. Conclusión: La poligrafía permite el diagnóstico objetivo de TRS en niños con ENM y constituye una herramienta útil para determinación de conductas terapéuticas.

Can pulse transit time be useful for detecting hypertension in patients in a sleep unit?

INTRODUCTION: Pulse transit time (PTT) is the time that a pulse wave takes to travel between two different arterial points, and may be useful in estimating blood pressure. This noninvasive technique, which does not add any cost to the procedure, offers the advantage of avoiding 'arousals' during sleep measurement as occurs with ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). We aim to confirm the usefulness of PTT for the detection of hypertension, and to study the correlation between both measurements. METHODS: Prospective observational study in a multidisciplinary sleep unit. We recruited 30consecutive patients attending a sleep clinic and ran a baseline polysomnography followed by an ABPM the following day. Average systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) by PTT were calculated and compared with ABMP results. In accordance with international guidelines, patients with mean nocturnal ABMP ≥ 120/70 mmHg were diagnosed as having arterial hypertension. RESULTS: Mean age of 60years; 66% male, 80% suffered from sleep apnoea (OSAS). Taking the ABPM as the reference technique, we found that the diagnostic sensitivity of PTT is 85% with a specificity of 88% in the case of SBP, with a positive predictive value of 85% and negative predictive value of 88%. By studying the relationship between mean SBP measured by ABPM and PTT, we found a linear correlation coefficient (R) of 0.88, showing a distribution of all subjects with a difference of between ±15mmHg between tests. There is also a positive correlation between mean DBP measured for the two tests, with a weaker linear correlation. CONCLUSIONS: Pulse transit time shows a strong correlation with blood pressure (measured by ABPM). PTT provides continuous, non-invasive, cuffless blood pressure monitoring free of additional cost and could be an alternative for screening hypertension.