Selected reviews of Economic Evaluations relating to Neuorology

Study Question: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common and often underestimated neurological disorder, with a prevalence ranging from approximately 2.5% to 10% in Western industrialised countries. The aim of this study was to summarise the research findings on the human and economic costs associated with RLS in populations without any co-morbidities or potentially confounding health conditions. A further objective was to identify studies on the cost-effectiveness of RLS treatments. In order to do this, a systematic literature review was performed based primarily on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library Data. Studies published before August 2008 were included if they assessed quality of life in patients suffering from RLS, determined total or patient-related costs attributable to RLS, and/or evaluated the cost-effectiveness of treatment options for RLS. Fifteen publications met all of the selection criteria and were included in the present review. Seven abstracts that focused on the economic burden of RLS and/or the cost-effectiveness of different treatment strategies in RLS patients were also included.