Spinal cord injury as a trigger to develop periodic leg movements during sleep: an evolutionary perspective

• Published in: Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria 2012-11, Vol.70 (11), p.880-884
• Main Authors: Telles, Susana Cristina Lerosa, Alves, Rosana S Cardoso, Chadi, Gerson
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biological Evolution; Central pattern generator; Central Pattern Generators - physiopathology; Evolution; Humans; Leg; Limbs; Movement - physiology; NEUROSCIENCES; Neurotransmitters; Nocturnal Myoclonus Syndrome - etiology; PSYCHIATRY; regeneração da medula espinal; restless legs syndrome; Restless Legs Syndrome - etiology; Restless Legs Syndrome - physiopathology; Sleep; Spinal Cord Injuries - complications; Spinal cord injury; síndrome da mioclonia noturna; síndrome das pernas inquietas
• ISSN: 0004-282X; 1678-4227; 1678-4227; 0004-282X
• DOI: 10.1590/s0004-282x2012001100011

The primary trigger to periodic limb movement (PLM) during sleep is still unknown. Its association with the restless legs syndrome (RLS) is established in humans and was reported in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients classified by the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) as A. Its pathogenesis has not been completely unraveled, though recent advances might enhance our knowledge about those malfunctions. PLM association with central pattern generator (CPG) is one of the possible pathologic mechanisms involved. This article reviewed the advances in PLM and RLS genetics, the evolution of CPG functioning, and the neurotransmitters involved in CPG, PLM and RLS. We have proposed that SCI might be a trigger to develop PLM.