Objective: To evaluate the P3 wave (latency, amplitude) in snorers and patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and investigate the possible mechanism.
Methods: Three groups, OSAS patient group (n = 21), snorer group (n = 21) and control group (n = 21), were administered polysomnography (PSG), auditory evoked event-related potential (P3) and clinic memory test. The results were analyzed using GLM analysis and Post Hoc test.
Results: The auditory P3 latency in OSAS group was 363 ms +/- 22 ms (Fz), 369 ms +/- 28 ms (Cz), in snorer group 336 ms +/- 31 ms (Fz), 340 ms +/- 32 ms (Cz), and in control group 341 ms +/- 29 ms (Fz), 338 ms +/- 30 ms (Cz). There were significant differences between OSAS group and snorer group, as well as control group (P < 0.05). No significant difference was seen between snorer group and control group. Memory quotient (MQ) was reduced in snoren group as compared with control group.
Conclusion: Abnormal auditory P3 latency indicates the cognitive dysfunction in OSAS patients. Nocturnal hypoxaemia may play an important role.