Study of Sleep Disorders in Prodromal and Definite Parkinsons Disease
This research is focused on understanding sleep problems in people who have Parkinson's disease and those who have a condition called REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), which can sometimes be an early sign of Parkinson's. Researchers want to learn more about the different sleep issues people experience and what shows up on special sleep tests. They're using a test called 'polysomnography' to get detailed information about brain activity, breathing, and muscle changes during sleep. The study aims to gather important details about these common, but often overlooked, sleep disturbances to help improve understanding and potentially lead to better support for patients in the future. It's a comprehensive look at sleep health in these conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, sometimes called SOMPARK, is looking closely at sleep problems in people who have Parkinson's disease and those who have a condition called REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD). RBD is when people act out their dreams during sleep, and it can sometimes be an early sign that someone might develop Parkinson's later on.
Sleep troubles are very common for people with Parkinson's and those at risk, but we don't always understand them fully. The main goal of this research is to get a clearer picture of what these sleep problems look like and what happens inside the body during sleep for people with these conditions. Researchers want to find out more about issues like restless sleep, difficulty falling asleep, or acting out dreams.
By gathering detailed information through special sleep tests, the study hopes to improve our knowledge. This better understanding could help doctors recognise and manage sleep problems earlier, potentially leading to better care and support for people living with Parkinson's or those who might develop it.
Key takeaways
- The study explores sleep problems in Parkinson's disease and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD).
- It uses an overnight sleep test called polysomnography.
- The aim is to better understand sleep issues in these conditions.
- No new medications are given as part of the study.
- Healthy volunteers are also included for comparison.
- It could help improve future care for people with sleep problems related to Parkinson's.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and fully understand what the study involves and agree to take part. Researchers are looking for different groups of people.
They are interested in people who have a Parkinson's disease diagnosis that meets international standards and who score above a certain level on a memory and thinking test (called MoCA). However, if you've had a special brain procedure called Deep Brain Stimulation, you wouldn't be able to join.
The study also includes people who have REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), which is diagnosed through a sleep study showing unusual muscle activity during dream sleep. You can't join the RBD group if you've already been diagnosed with other progressive brain conditions like advanced Parkinson's, Multiple System Atrophy, or Lewy Body Dementia. Finally, there's a group of healthy volunteers with no known brain or mental health conditions.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (and no Deep Brain Stimulation)?
- Have you been diagnosed with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (and no other progressive brain conditions)?
- Are you a healthy person with no known brain or mental health conditions?
- Are you able to understand the study information and agree to take part?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
This study involves a specific sleep test called polysomnography. This test will record your brain waves, breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and muscle activity while you sleep, usually overnight in a special sleep lab. You won't be given any new medications as part of the study, as it's just about observing and understanding your sleep patterns. The total duration of your involvement will depend on the assessments required, but typically involves one or more overnight stays for the sleep test.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (6)
- CHU de Clermont-FerrandVerified postcodeClermont-Ferrand, France· Recruiting
- CHU de LilleVerified postcodeLille, France· Recruiting
- CHU de LyonVerified postcodeLyon, France· Recruiting
- CHU de NantesVerified postcodeNantes, France· Recruiting
- CHU de NîmesVerified postcodeNîmes, France· Recruiting
- CHU Pitié SalpêtrièreVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is polysomnography?
It's a special overnight sleep test that records your brain activity, breathing, heart rate, and muscle movements to understand how you sleep.
What is REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)?
RBD is a sleep condition where you physically act out your dreams during sleep, sometimes by moving around or shouting.
Why are healthy people included in the study?
Healthy volunteers help researchers compare sleep patterns to better understand the differences and changes in people with Parkinson’s or RBD.
Will I be given any new medication in this study?
No, this study does not involve giving any new medications. It only involves observations and sleep tests.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement will primarily include visits for the sleep test, which is typically an overnight stay or a few assessment sessions.
How to find out more
Isabelle ARNULF, Prof
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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