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Obstructive sleep apnoea — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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ModerateSleep medicineObstructive sleep apnoeaSCE Respiratory

A 49-year-old lorry driver reports loud snoring, witnessed apnoeas and sleepiness while driving. BMI is 36 kg/m², neck circumference is 46 cm and Epworth Sleepiness Scale is 18/24. Resting SpO2 is 96% on air and serum bicarbonate is 24 mmol/L. He has no features of neuromuscular disease. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: D — Home respiratory polygraphy

Symptoms and occupational risk suggest obstructive sleep apnoea, and respiratory polygraphy is an appropriate diagnostic investigation. A chest radiograph will not diagnose sleep-disordered breathing. Driver safety advice should be addressed while assessment and treatment are expedited.

Reference: NICE NG202 Obstructive sleep apnoea; DVLA guidance