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Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder in Children and Adolescents: A Case Series
Irregular Sleep-Wake Patterns in Children and Teens: Case Reports
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Abstract
Six sighted children with non‑24‑hour sleep‑wake disorder (N24SWD) were identified, with five having autism spectrum disorder.
- All six children exhibited free-running sleep cycles ranging from 24 to 29 hours, leading to progressive delays in sleep and periodic day-night reversal.
- Behavioral and functional impairments worsened during periods of circadian misalignment.
- Entrainment strategies, such as melatonin and bright light therapy, showed variable success, with long-term adherence being rarely achievable.
- Families often chose to maintain flexible sleep schedules, reporting improved mood and functioning when natural sleep patterns were accommodated.
- Pediatric N24SWD is frequently associated with neurodevelopmental comorbidities.
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