Multiple sleep latency test (MSLT)

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An MSLT is a type of sleep study that is done for patients that are excessively tired during the day despite an adequate amount of hours slept the night before, and who aren't suspected to have sleep apnoea. In these cases it is possible that the patient has a sleep disorder called hypersomnolence or a sleep disorder called narcolepsy. 

The MSLT involves having a diagnostic sleep study the night before to ensure that enough sleep was achieved and to assess the quality of that sleep. The patient then spends the following day in the sleep lab having 5 naps during the day at 2 hour intervals. Usually the test ends at approximately 5pm the day after the overnight sleep study, so patients can expect to be in the lab for around 23 hours. 

Throughout the MSLT the patient is required to stay awake and out of bed during the day except for during the five 20 minute nap periods. During the nap periods you will be asked to lay still and comfortably in the bed and attempt to fall asleep. The room will be dark and quiet during this time. 

The results of the test and management plan will be discussed during a follow up with your sleep physician.