Sleep-related laryngospasm: a video-polysomnographic recording

Epileptic Disord. 2006 Mar;8(1):70-2.

Abstract

We present a case of laryngospasm in a 12-year-old male who experienced sudden, nocturnal episodes of breathing difficulties and agitation. Apart from laryngospasm, the main differential diagnoses included frontal seizures, sleep-related choking syndrome, sleep asthma, sleep apnoea and REM sleep behaviour disorder. The video and the EEG recordings supported the diagnosis of laryngospasm. The pH-metry confirmed the existence of reflux. Its treatment successfully controlled the episodes. This case illustrates, with a typical video recording, this infrequent type of paroxysmal event with an important differential diagnosis.[Published with video sequences].

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electroencephalography
  • Humans
  • Laryngismus / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Polysomnography / methods*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Video Recording