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Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is a daytime study that measures how quickly you fall asleep in a quiet environment. It’s commonly used to evaluate excessive daytime sleepiness and helps diagnose conditions such as narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. The test provides valuable insight into your body’s tendency to enter REM sleep during the day, helping your physician identify the underlying cause of persistent fatigue.
At TriCity Lung & Sleep, MSLT testing is performed under the supervision of Dr. Saad S. Ahmad, MD, who is board certified in Sleep Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, and Critical Care Medicine. This allows our team to interpret each study within the broader context of respiratory and neurological health. Every test follows AASM guidelines for accurate diagnosis and patient safety.
How the Test Works
The MSLT is typically performed the day after an overnight sleep study. You’ll stay at the sleep center and complete a series of short nap opportunities—usually five—scheduled two hours apart. During each nap trial, sensors record your brain waves, eye movement, muscle tone, and heart rhythm. The time it takes for you to fall asleep and whether you enter REM sleep are key measures that help confirm or rule out disorders like narcolepsy.
Our Role in Your Care
Because MSLT results are highly dependent on preparation and data quality, our clinical team ensures every step is carefully managed. Prior to testing, we review your medical history, current medications, and prior sleep studies to confirm appropriateness and accuracy. Our credentialed technologists monitor each nap session and maintain precise data collection according to AASM scoring criteria. Dr. Ahmad personally interprets every MSLT and integrates the findings with your overall clinical picture.
Our technologists who run these studies are seasoned professionals—typically with over 20 years of experience—and hold multiple advanced credentials such as Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT), Certified in Clinical Sleep Health (CCSH), and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). Their ongoing training and technical expertise ensure every study is performed safely, accurately, and comfortably.
- Five nap opportunities spaced two hours apart
- Measures sleep onset and REM occurrence
- Helps diagnose narcolepsy and hypersomnia
- Conducted and interpreted under AASM guidelines
- Supervised by board-certified sleep specialists
After your test, results are reviewed by Dr. Ahmad and shared promptly with your referring provider. A follow-up consultation may include treatment recommendations, lifestyle guidance, or additional testing depending on your diagnosis.
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