[Erroneous and complicating diagnoses in patients with the sleep apnea syndrome]

A great number of patients suffering from SAS (19.5% according to our study) exhibit other complicating illnesses. This requires a complex diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Of these complicating illnesses the most frequent are neuropathy, thyreopathy and similar metabolic diseases. A polygraphic investigation alone may not suffice. It is necessary for a neurological specialist, acquainted with sleep disorders. This neurologist co-operates with the other specialists. A correctly indicated therapeutic procedure (conservative or surgical) will prevent a future relapse of the illness.