Abstract
OBJECTIVE
The morphologic characteristics could change with aging. We investigated the pathogenetic role on obstructive sleep apnea in the elderly population.
METHOD
292 patients were divided into four groups:<40yr (n = 72), 40-49yr (n = 62), 50-59yr (n = 77) and 60yr≥ (n = 81). All of them underwent a morphological evaluation, measurement of nasal resistance, assessment of daytime sleepiness and nocturnal polysomnography.
RESULTS
Tonsil size was reduced progressively with aging. Retroglossal space was wider in 60yr≥ group than <40yr group. Modified Mallampatti Score, indicating the soft palate position, was lower in <40 yr group than the other age groups. Smaller tonsils, wider retroglossal space and lower soft palate position were characteristic for the elderly patients. Multiple regression analysis showed that BMI, age, sex, tonsil size and width of fauces were independent factors for apnea/hypopnea index.
CONCLUSION
Morphologically, the tonsil could play a minor role but the width of fauces could play relatively a major role to contribute to the highly prevalence in the elderly.