REM sleep parasomnias

Abstract

This article focuses primarily on REM sleep behavior disorder, a recently identified syndrome with a corresponding animal model. Diagnostic methods and criteria, treatment, and the world literature are reviewed, and the experience of the authors' institution--The Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center (Minneapolis, MN)--is summarized. Other REM parasomnias, including nightmares, REM sleep-related sinus arrest, and sleep-related painful erections, are discussed briefly.