Psychiatria pre prax 2/2003

Restless legs syndrome

Primary features of restless legs syndrome (RLS) are: an urge to move, usually due to uncomfortable sensations, motor restlessness, expressed as activity, that relieves the urge to move, worsening of symptoms by relaxation mainly in the evening and in the early night. Dopaminergic system dysfunction is suspected. Diagnosis is established on interviewing the patient and by polysomnography or actigraphy. L-Dopa, dopamine agonists and opioids are most recommended in therapy.

Keywords: restless legs syndrome, patophysiology, diagnosis, treatment.