Review Article
Internal Medicine: Guidance to the Diagnosis and Management of Restless Legs Syndrome
Abstract
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a chronic neurologic disorder, with a prevalence rate in the general population of 5% to 10%. The diagnosis of RLS is straightforward; it is based on symptom history alone and uses the four essential diagnostic criteria for RLS. Owing to the heterogeneity of the disorder, the sensory and motor symptoms of RLS are often attributed to other disorders, and many patients remain undiagnosed and untreated. The symptoms of RLS are thought to result from a central dopaminergic dysfunction. Dopamine agonists are considered first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe primary RLS, although other nondopaminergic therapies are sometimes used to ease the symptoms of RLS. This article will guide primary care and internal medicine specialists through the diagnosis and management options of primary RLS.
Key Points
* The prevalence of restless legs syndrome is 5% to 10% in the general population.
* The diagnosis of restless legs syndrome is based on symptom history and four diagnostic criteria.
* Dopamine agonists are currently considered first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe primary restless legs syndrome.
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