METABOLIC DYSFUNCTION AND INFLAMMATION IN CHILDHOOD SLEEP APNEA

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This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. The metabolic syndrome, (insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity) is related to an increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. An association between the metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been found in adults. An increase in serum levels of inflammatory markers has also been previously documented in adult patients with OSA. Serum leptin and growth hormone, potential mediators of metabolic disturbances in sleep apnea, are increased by intermittent hypoxemia in adults with OSA. Apnea severity and hypoxemia appear to be independently predictive of glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Little is known about the metabolic effects of sleep apnea in children. OSA correlates with serum levels of fasting insulin, leptin, and CRP levels in obese children, but the relationship of childhood sleep apnea and the metabolic syndrome independent of obesity is unknown. The association of childhood sleep apnea with the metabolic syndrome and inflammation requires investigation in order to determine if the cardiovascular risks associated with sleep apnea in adults are present in children. If sleep apnea is related to these risks, and if the metabolic syndrome is improved by sleep apnea treatment, early intervention may alter the morbidity of the cardiovascular consequences associated with sleep apnea in adults.