Characterisation of Sleep Problems in Angelman Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Studies have reported high prevalence rates of sleep problems in Angelman Syndrome (AS), relating to abnormal sleep–wake cycles and reduced sleep duration. This systematic review aimed to characterise sleep problems in AS, investigate how they are assessed and identify the treatments/interventions prescribed. A systematic search of PsycINFO, PubMed and Psychology & Behavioral Sciences Collection was conducted using pre-determined search terms. Relevant studies published between 2016 and mid-2020 were included to expand on earlier reviews. Seven articles quantifying sleep problems, assessment and treatment/intervention in children and adults with AS were reviewed (N = 266). Findings demonstrated reduced total sleep duration (M = 538 min), longer night-awakenings (M = 67 min) and reduced sleep efficiency (78%) in AS compared with typically developing peers. Medication was highly prescribed historically/currently (n = 176, 66.2%). This review highlights the clinically significant presence of sleep problems with the majority of individuals requiring medical intervention. Decreased sleep duration, sleep efficiency and increased night-awakenings represent the most significant sleep problems across studies. Findings suggest sleep problems begin in infancy but improve in adulthood. This finding should be considered with caution as only two studies included an adult sample. Priorities for future research should focus on longitudinal studies to determine whether sleep problems improve with age in AS.