Restless Chest Syndrome: A Rare Variant of Restless Legs Syndrome

Abstract

A 23-year-old Japanese woman presented with a 1-month history of dyspnoea and chest discomfort. Since the symptoms improved with dynamic and sensory stimulation and also caused insomnia, we considered a variant of restless legs syndrome (RLS) called 'restless chest syndrome', although there were no symptoms in the extremities. We initiated oral administration of pramipexole 0.25 mg daily, and her symptoms, including dyspnoea, chest discomfort and insomnia, improved within 1 week. RLS should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients who present with abnormal sensations that worsen at night, with insomnia, regardless of the site of the symptoms.