- Rare neurological disorder affecting adolescents, more common in males than females.
- Characterized by recurrent episodes of extreme hypersomnia, where individuals sleep excessively (often more than 10 hours a day).
- Episodes are accompanied by altered mental states such as mental slowness, derealization, confusion, apathy, and disinhibited behaviors.
- Prolonged and excessive sleep, often waking up only for basic needs.
- Mental confusion and slow cognitive processing.
- Feeling detached from reality (derealization).
- Displaying disinhibited behaviors like hypersexuality or rudeness.
- Episodes can last from a few days to several weeks, with some lasting up to 30 days.
- As individuals age, the frequency of episodes tends to decrease, and some may outgrow the condition.
- However, approximately 15% of cases do not show signs of recovery even after 15 years.
- Management and treatment are challenging.
- Lithium may be used for prevention in severe cases.
- During extended episodes, intravenous steroids might be administered to manage symptoms.
- The unpredictability of episodes can significantly impact daily life.
- Lack of specific and universally effective treatment options makes managing KLS challenging.
While some individuals may outgrow the condition over time, recovery can vary among patients.
Klein-Levin Syndrome presents unique challenges due to the unpredictable nature of its episodes and the lack of universally effective treatments, making it a complex condition to manage and treat.