What is the primary method for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

Polysomnography is the primary method for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) because it involves comprehensive, overnight monitoring of various physiological parameters during sleep. This method provides a detailed assessment of sleep architecture, respiratory events, oxygen saturation, heart rate, and other critical factors that contribute to the diagnosis of OSA.

During polysomnography, channels are monitored, including EEG (electroencephalogram), EOG (electrooculogram), EMG (electromyogram), airflow, respiratory effort, and oxygen saturation levels. This extensive data collection allows for the distinction between different types of sleep-related breathing disorders, including OSA, by identifying apneas, hypopneas, and the overall impact on the patient's sleep quality.

While home sleep apnea testing can be a useful tool in determining the presence of sleep apnea, it typically collects fewer parameters and may not provide a comprehensive picture as polysomnography does. The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is primarily used to assess daytime sleepiness and is not intended for diagnosing OSA. Nocturnal pulse oximetry can indicate oxygen desaturation but does not provide the full range of data needed to diagnose the disorder accurately. Thus, polysomnography remains the gold standard for diagnosing obstruct