Restless legs syndrome
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Synopsis
Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a movement disorder characterized by an uncomfortable or distressing urge to move the legs. The sensation occurs during periods of inactivity and is more common at night, although the syndrome can progress to occur during the day. Movement of the legs transiently relieves the uncomfortable sensation.
Symptoms are typically bilateral and rarely involve body parts besides the legs. It can be primary or secondary, with secondary RLS seen in chronic renal failure, iron deficiency, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, and neuropathy. A positive family history is present in up to 60% of cases. Onset of symptoms is typically in middle to old age, but young adults may be affected. Symptoms are typically chronic and may progress, except in secondary RLS where symptoms may improve with treatment of the primary condition.
Symptoms are typically bilateral and rarely involve body parts besides the legs. It can be primary or secondary, with secondary RLS seen in chronic renal failure, iron deficiency, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, and neuropathy. A positive family history is present in up to 60% of cases. Onset of symptoms is typically in middle to old age, but young adults may be affected. Symptoms are typically chronic and may progress, except in secondary RLS where symptoms may improve with treatment of the primary condition.
Codes
ICD10CM:
G25.81 – Restless legs syndrome
SNOMEDCT:
32914008 – Restless legs
G25.81 – Restless legs syndrome
SNOMEDCT:
32914008 – Restless legs
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Akathisia
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Radiculopathy (see lumbar radiculopathy)
- Anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Caffeinism
- Sedative withdrawal (see benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome)
- Drug-induced dyskinesia
- Nocturnal leg cramps
- Chorea
- Tic disorder
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Therapy
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Drug Reaction Data
Below is a list of drugs with literature evidence indicating an adverse association with this diagnosis. The list is continually updated through ongoing research and new medication approvals. Click on Citations to sort by number of citations or click on Medication to sort the medications alphabetically.
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References
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Last Reviewed:08/27/2018
Last Updated:04/27/2023
Last Updated:04/27/2023