Cognitive dysfunction in rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder

Abstract

Cognitive impairment is a frequent feature of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD). The cognitive profile of RBD patients is heterogeneous, with impairments in attention, executive functions, episodic memory, and visuospatial abilities. Moreover, over 50% of RBD patients meet the diagnostic criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Although a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment remains the most sensitive way to detect MCI, three cognitive screening tests have been validated in RBD. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was found to be the most appropriate screening test for detecting MCI in RBD. In addition, RBD in Parkinson's disease may be a risk factor for MCI and dementia. © 2013 The Authors Sleep and Biological Rhythms © 2013 Japanese Society of Sleep Research.