REM sleep behavior disorder
Also written as: RBD
A parasomnia characterized by loss of normal muscle atonia during REM sleep, resulting in dream enactment behaviors.
Full Definition
REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a parasomnia in which patients lose the normal muscle atonia (paralysis) that occurs during REM sleep, allowing them to physically act out their dreams. Polysomnographic findings include excessive muscle tone during REM sleep (REM without atonia) and may capture episodes of complex motor behaviors. RBD is significant because it's often associated with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly synucleinopathies like Parkinson's disease. Clinical editors should note that RBD diagnosis requires both clinical history of dream enactment and polysomnographic confirmation of REM without atonia. The condition affects predominantly older males and may precede other neurological symptoms by years.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as RBD; always distinguish from other parasomnias occurring in non-REM sleep.
In Context
- "Polysomnography confirmed REM sleep behavior disorder with loss of normal REM atonia." — Sleep study report
- "The patient's violent dream enactment behaviors were consistent with RBD." — Sleep medicine consultation