Circadian Rhythm Disorders in Childhood

Abstract

Chronobiology is a science that studies the physiology and pathology of circadian phenomena. In the last 50 years, numerous studies have been published on sleep changes during puberty and adolescence, which largely consist of delays in the timing of sleep. The most notable consequence of these shifts is a sleep debt due to a forced early wake-up during school days, despite no change in sleep requirements (around 9 h), and diurnal hypersomnolence. All these changes explain why teenagers are particularly vulnerable to delayed sleep phase syndrome, which is known to peak during adolescence (prevalence ranging from 7 % to 16 % compared with 0.15% during adulthood). Advanced sleep phase disorder (ASPD), delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD), irregular sleep-wake rhythm (ISWR), and the non-24-h sleep-wake syndrome or free-running disorder (non-entrained type) are referred to as "endogenous" circadian rhythm sleep disorders. The clinical features of each sleep circadian disorder are discussed together with the recommended treatment. Pediatric categories of subjects that are at risk of developing circadian disorders, such as those with a developmental disability, autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, and mood disorders, are investigated. Lastly, two case reports that provide examples of clinical practice are also presented. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)