Pediatric restless legs syndrome diagnostic criteria: an update by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group

Abstract

Revised diagnostic criteria for pediatric RLS have been developed, which are intended to improve clinical practice and promote further research.

Diagnosis of Restless Leg Syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease)

“…15 The diagnosis is demarcated as definite, probable, or possible RLS/WED. The probable diagnosis of restless leg syndrome has been observed in Becker infants based on observation by parents of poor sleep, especially when parents or siblings have RLS/WED.…”

Restless Legs Syndrome/Willis-Ekbom Disease and Growing Pains in Children and Adolescents

“…5 Special consideration and supportive clinical features have been developed to guide the application of criteria in children. The management of RLS and PLMD involves both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches.…”

“…6 The diagnostic criteria for pediatric RLS have recently been updated in 2013. 5 The criteria were simplified and integrated with newly revised adult RLS criteria. 26 As in adult RLS, 5 essential RLS criteria must be met in children (Box 1).…”

“…Because the diagnostic criteria for RLS in children are still evolving, the probable and possible RLS categories (Box 4) are intended for research purposes with the intent to capture the full spectrum of disease. 5,6,27 In fact, a recent retrospective study showed that some children with RLS had previously met the research criteria for diagnosis of probable or possible RLS. 25 Therefore, probable and possible RLS may be the early manifestations of RLS in children.…”

Brazilian consensus on guidelines for diagnosis and treatment for restless legs syndrome

“…The International Study Group on Restless Legs Syndrome (IRLSSG) proposed criteria for diagnosis in 1995, which were recently reviewed 9,114 . Diagnostic criteria for children were also defined for ages 2 to 12 years and above 12 years of age, as proposed by IRLSSG in three levels of demand, namely, defined RLS, probable and possible RLS, as shown below.…”