Link Between Sleep Apnea and Autoimmune Disorders Studied

New research by University of Georgia scientists sheds light on a possible link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and autoimmune disorders. The results could lead to better approaches to treatment and possibly new drug therapies. The study was published in Clinical Immunology. 

"This paper looks at what may be the underlying mechanisms that increase someone's risk for autoimmune disorders because they have untreated obstructive sleep apnea," said lead researcher  Bradley Phillips.

The team looked at four cytokines associated with autoimmune disease. They evaluated the cytokines in three groups of adults: patients with untreated OSA, patients with OSA who were receiving treatment, and people who did not have OSA. The study results revealed abnormal levels of the four cytokines in patients with untreated sleep apnea, suggesting that poor sleep and inadequate oxygen supply may affect the cytokines.

"The relationship between OSA and other diseases is always complex to study. OSA in adults is commonly first diagnosed in midlife, but increases with age," said Phillips. "With increased age, you are also at risk for other diseases, and it's very challenging for clinicians and researchers to determine if it's OSA alone that causes other disorders, or if OSA only worsens the severity and progression of an underlying disease. In the case of high blood pressure, we know untreated OSA can cause hypertension and make blood pressure drug therapy ineffective. If obstructive sleep apnea is a key player, then it should be evaluated and treated along with other conditions."