MSLT
Also written as: MSLT — Multiple Sleep Latency Test
Multiple Sleep Latency Test; standardized assessment measuring the tendency to fall asleep during daytime conditions.
Full Definition
The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is a standardized objective assessment of daytime sleepiness and the tendency to enter REM sleep. The test consists of four to five 20-minute nap opportunities scheduled at two-hour intervals throughout the day following an overnight sleep study. Key measurements include sleep latency (time to fall asleep) and REM latency (time to enter REM sleep). The MSLT is essential for diagnosing narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia, and other disorders of excessive daytime sleepiness, with specific criteria established for different sleep disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Must follow overnight polysomnography and requires strict protocol adherence.
In Context
- "The MSLT revealed a mean sleep latency of 3 minutes with REM sleep in three of five naps, confirming narcolepsy." — Sleep disorder evaluation
- "MSLT results showed severe daytime sleepiness but no sleep-onset REM periods." — Hypersomnia assessment