Nursing Edição Brasileira · Aug 27, 2026

REM Sleep Disorder as a Predictor of Synucleinopathies with Psychiatric Manifestations

By Tomaz MP

REM sleep behavior disorder (TCSR) is a parasomnia characterized by the loss of physiological muscle atonia during rapid eye movement sleep, allowing the physical enactment of dreams. Recent scientific evidence establishes TCSR as a robust prodromal marker for the development of synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. These neurodegenerative conditions are frequently preceded by psychiatric presentations, such as depression, anxiety, and hallucinations. This study aimed to review the literature on the role of TCSR as a predictor of synucleinopathies, focusing on psychiatric manifestations. The systematic review demonstrates that the presence of TCSR, associated with early neuropsychiatric symptoms, indicates a high probability of conversion to neurodegenerative diseases. It is concluded that early identification of TCSR in psychiatric settings is essential for neurological monitoring and neuroprotection strategies.

doi.org/10.36489/nursing.2026v32i340p21375-21378 Open access Biomarkers