It is increasingly recognized that sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) - from snoring to apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS) - can affect patients with various endocrine diseases (ED). Different mechanisms are implied in SDB, promoting either central or, more frequently, obstructive apnea in different ED. In the past, acromegaly and hypothyroidism were first associated with both central and obstructive SAHS. Today, great attention is placed on the complex cause-effect relationship between diabetes mellitus and obstructive SAHS (and vice versa). Symptoms and signs of SAHS may complicate the clinical course of these diseases and should be promptly suspected to detect and possibly treat the accompanying SDB.
Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel