REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

Diagnosis

Because REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) can be confused with other sleep disorders and can also coexist with other sleep disorders, it's important to get as accurate and comprehensive a diagnosis as possible.

In addition to a physical exam, a neurologic exam, and a complete medical history (use or withdrawal from certain drugs can cause RBD), an overnight sleep study is usually necessary to more fully understand what is happening to the patient during sleep.

A sleep study involves a nocturnal polysomnogram, a painless test in which a number of sensors are applied to the skin's surface to record brain wave activity, eye movements, breathing function, oxygen levels, heart rate and muscle activity during sleep. The patient is also simultaneously video-recorded to observe behavior during REM cycles.

Reports by a bed partner are also helpful in diagnosis.