Childhood onset narcolepsy

Abstract.

Narcolepsy is a disorder of the sleep-wake cycle with long-term sequelae. Although regarded as rare, it is probably under-diagnosed in both adults and children. Clinical heterogeneity, particularly in childhood, and development of symptoms over time, contribute to the delay in diagnosis and treatment. We present a case of a child with symptoms suggestive of narcolepsy. We discuss the merits of early intervention in selected cases, even when full diagnostic criteria are lacking.