Definition: A condition associated with multiple episodes of sleep apnea which are distinguished from obstructive sleep apnea (SLEEP APNEA, OBSTRUCTIVE) by the complete cessation of efforts to breathe. This disorder is associated with dysfunction of central nervous system centers that regulate respiration. This condition may be idiopathic (primary) or associated with lower brain stem lesions; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (LUNG DISEASES, OBSTRUCTIVE); HEART FAILURE, CONGESTIVE; medication effect; and other conditions. Sleep maintenance is impaired, resulting in daytime hypersomnolence. Primary central sleep apnea is frequently associated with obstructive sleep apnea. When both forms are present the condition is referred to as mixed sleep apnea (see SLEEP APNEA SYNDROMES). (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p395; Neurol Clin 1996;14(3):611-28)
Other names Sleep-Disordered Breathings, Central; Sleep Disordered Breathing, Central; Sleep Apneas, Central; Hypoventilations, Central Alveolar; Central Sleep-Disordered Breathings; Central Sleep-Disordered Breathing; Central Sleep Apneas; Central Apneas; Central Apnea; Central Alveolar Hypoventilation; Breathings, Central Sleep-Disordered; Breathing, Central Sleep-Disordered; Apneas, Central Sleep; Apneas, Central; Apnea, Central Sleep; Alveolar Hypoventilations, Central; Alveolar Hypoventilation, Central; Sleep Apnea, Newborn, Primary; Secondary Central Sleep Apnea; Primary Sleep Apneas of Newborn
