Executive and frontal lobe function

Executive function impairment is frequently reported in studies of patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Previous studies of executive deficits have been criticized for their lack of control over basic attentional processes in measuring executive function. It is proposed that such issues can be addressed statistically and by applying theory-driven approaches such as the working memory model. Preliminary findings from more recent studies have also highlighted the role of protective factors in mitigating the OSA-associated executive deficits. Detailed characterization of residual executive function deficits after treatment of OSA is critical for the evaluation of treatment outcomes and the development of appropriate cognitive rehabilitation strategies. While the treatment efficacy in reversing the executive function impairment of OSA is still inconclusive, accumulating evidence seems to suggest the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment in slowing down cognitive deterioration induced by OSA. Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.