Sleep
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The obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) occurs in patients of all ages, from the premature infant to the elderly. Much remains unknown about the pathophysiology of the syndrome. However, research suggests that OSAS in all age groups is due to a combination of both anatomic airway narrowing and abnormal upper airway neuromotor tone. ⋯ However, upper airway neuromotor tone and reflexes during sleep vary with age and are increased in normal infants and children compared to adults, perhaps as a compensatory response for their relatively narrow airway. This compensatory response appears to be blunted in children with OSAS. Further research is needed to fully understand the complexities of upper airway structure and function during both normal development and disease.