Restless legs syndrome: a review

Abstract

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the limbs accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, leading to sleep disturbances. It is associated with psychiatric comorbidities and a decreased quality of life. RLS is common and most severe among females and the elderly. It may be primary or secondary to other conditions and may be familial. Linkage to several chromosomal loci have been demonstrated. The pathogenesis of RLS involves dopaminergic dysfunction, iron metabolism, and abnormalities in supraspinal inhibition. The mainstay of RLS therapy are dopamine agonists or levodopa. This article reviews the clinical characteristics, epidemiology, diagnosis, pathogenesis, and treatment of RLS.