FREE RST Sleep Disorders & Pathophysiology Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

Accepted Answer

Recurrent episodes of apnea/hypopnea despite respiratory effort

Answer

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is characterized by recurrent episodes of partial or complete upper airway collapse during sleep. Despite these obstructions, the individual's respiratory muscles continue to make an effort to breathe. This persistent respiratory effort against a blocked airway is a defining feature that distinguishes OSA from central sleep apnea.

Question 2

What is the primary pathophysiological mechanism of narcolepsy type 1?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune destruction of hypocretin neurons

Answer

Narcolepsy type 1 is primarily caused by the selective loss of hypocretin (orexin) producing neurons in the hypothalamus. This destruction is believed to be an autoimmune process, leading to a severe deficiency of hypocretin, a neuropeptide crucial for regulating wakefulness and REM sleep. The lack of hypocretin results in the characteristic symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.

Question 3

Which sleep disorder is characterized by 'unpleasant leg sensations and an urge to move' that worsens at rest?

Accepted Answer

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Answer

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder defined by an irresistible urge to move the legs, typically accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. These symptoms characteristically begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity and are partially or totally relieved by movement. The symptoms are also typically worse in the evening or night, significantly impacting sleep.

Question 4

In central sleep apnea (CSA), what distinguishes apnea events from OSA events?

Accepted Answer

Absence of respiratory effort during apnea

Answer

The key distinction between central sleep apnea (CSA) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) lies in the presence or absence of respiratory effort. In CSA, the brain temporarily fails to send signals to the muscles that control breathing, resulting in a cessation of both airflow and respiratory effort. Conversely, in OSA, there is continued respiratory effort against an obstructed airway.

Question 5

Which polysomnographic finding is diagnostic for REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)?

Accepted Answer

Elevated EMG tone during REM sleep

Answer

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is characterized by the loss of normal muscle atonia during REM sleep, leading to dream enactment behaviors. Polysomnography (PSG) confirms RBD by showing elevated or sustained submental EMG (electromyogram) tone, or excessive phasic EMG activity, during REM sleep, often accompanied by complex motor behaviors captured by video. This abnormal muscle activity during REM sleep is the diagnostic hallmark.

RST - Registered Sleep Technologist Practice Test

RST - Registered Sleep Technologist Practice Test

FREE RST Sleep Disorders & Pathophysiology Questions and Answers