Obstructive sleep apnoea in children with Down’s syndrome: challenges and treatment strategies
Obstructive sleep apnoea poses a significant health challenge for children with Down’s syndrome. Its high prevalence is attributed to unique anatomical, physiological, and comorbid factors in this population. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial, as children with Down’s syndrome are particularly vulnerable to the health consequences of obstructive sleep apnoea. While adenotonsillectomy is the first-line treatment, its efficacy in children with Down’s syndrome can be lower. This often necessitates further airway evaluation and interventions. Alternative treatment options include continuous positive airway pressure, medication therapies, and surgical interventions such as upper airway soft tissue surgery and upper airway stimulation. Despite technological and therapeutic advancements, evidence on the effectiveness of these approaches for children with Down’s syndrome remains lacking or inconclusive. Further research is essential to optimize obstructive sleep apnoea treatment strategies for children with Down’s syndrome, intended ultimately to improve their health outcomes and quality of life.