16th February 2025

A 72-year-old lady is referred for a sleep study as she complains of daytime sleepiness, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea and morning headaches.

A 72-year-old lady is referred for a sleep study as she complains of daytime sleepiness, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea and morning headaches. Her background includes recent cortical stroke, atrial fibrillation and obesity. She has a 25-pack-year smoking history.

The sleep study shows 17 apnoeic episodes per hour with a crescendo-decrescendo respiratory pattern.

What is the most appropriate diagnosis?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.