Sleep, epilepsy, and autism

Jennifer A Accardo; Beth A Malow

doi:10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.09.081

Sleep, epilepsy, and autism

Epilepsy Behav. 2015 Jun:47:202-6. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.09.081. Epub 2014 Dec 10.

Authors

Jennifer A Accardo¹, Beth A Malow²

Affiliations

¹ Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Baltimore, MD, USA; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Baltimore, MD, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].
² Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN, USA; Kennedy Center, Nashville, TN, USA.

PMID: 25496798
DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.09.081

Abstract

The purpose of this review article is to explore the links between sleep and epilepsy and the treatment of sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Epilepsy and sleep have bidirectional relationships, and problems with both are highly prevalent in children with ASD. Literature is reviewed to support the view that sleep is particularly important to address in the context of ASD. Identification and management of sleep disorders may improve seizure control and challenging behaviors. In closing, special considerations for evaluating and treating sleep disorders in children with ASD and epilepsy are reviewed. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Autism and Epilepsy".

Keywords: Autism; Autism spectrum disorder; Comorbidities; Epilepsy; Sleep.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Autistic Disorder / physiopathology*
Child
Epilepsy / physiopathology*
Humans
Sleep Wake Disorders / etiology*
Sleep Wake Disorders / physiopathology*
Sleep*