Multiple sleep latency test

Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is a sleep disorder diagnostic tool used to measure the time taken by an individual to fall asleep under controlled conditions. It is often used to test for narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia, and other sleep disorders.

Procedure

The MSLT is performed over the course of a day following a full night's polysomnography. The test consists of four or five 20-minute nap opportunities set two hours apart. The patient is instructed to try to fall asleep during these times. The time taken to fall asleep is measured from the start of each nap opportunity.

Interpretation

The primary measure in the MSLT is the mean sleep latency. A mean sleep latency of less than 5 minutes is considered suggestive of severe sleepiness or narcolepsy. A mean sleep latency of less than 10 minutes is considered borderline. A mean sleep latency of more than 10 minutes is considered normal.

Limitations

The MSLT has several limitations. It may not accurately reflect an individual's typical sleep pattern if the individual is not used to napping during the day. It may also be affected by the individual's sleep schedule in the days leading up to the test.

See also

• Polysomnography
• Sleep disorders
• Narcolepsy
• Idiopathic hypersomnia

Multiple sleep latency test Resources
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