PSG diagnostic features of OSAHS in Chinese children: a retrospective cohort study

Objective To evaluate the clinical utility of PSG in diagnosing and characterizing PSG features of OSAHS in children. Methods A retrospective study was implemented from January 2024 to June 2025.A total of 106 children with sleep-related symptoms underwent standardized overnight PSG. Core indicators ‒ Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), minimum oxygen saturation, sleep efficiency, N3 sleep stage proportion (slow-wave sleep ratio), and arousal index ‒ were analyzed. Results The OSAHS group had higher AHI, ODI, and arousal index but lower N3 proportion and minimum SpO 2 (all p < 0.05). No significant age-group differences were observed (p > 0.05). The mild OSAHS group showed higher sleep efficiency and minimum SpO 2 , and fewer arousals than moderate/severe groups (p < 0.05). OSAHS detection rate was significantly higher in snoring versus non-snoring children (p < 0.05). Obese children had significantly higher AHI, ODI, and arousal index than non-obese children (p < 0.05). Conclusion PSG objectively reflects OSAHS severity in children. Children with OSAHS commonly exhibit sleep architecture disruption and hypoxia, which are associated with daytime functional impairments. PSG results guide individualized treatment planning plans.