Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Article Sections
Introduction
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a common neurologic sensorimotor disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs that is often accompanied by dysesthesia (eg, itching, crawling sensation). Symptoms occur primarily at rest and at night and can be temporarily relieved by movement. RLS commonly disrupts sleep and can significantly impair quality of life. The incidence increases with age, with up to 25% of the population age >65 affected by RLS.
Pathophysiology
RLS is classified as primary (if idiopathic) or secondary (if accompanied by a predisposing condition or caused by medications listed in the "Risk factors" section). Nearly half of patients with idiopathic RLS have a positive family history (autosomal dominant inheritance).
The pathophysiology of RLS is not clearly understood, but it is associated with central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system abnormalities:
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