American journal of diseases of children (1911)
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Kleine-Levin syndrome is characterized by periodic hypersomnia associated with megaphagia and striking behavioral and psychiatric symptoms; it occurs primarily in adolescent boys. We treated a 17-year-old boy who had typical recurring somnolent episodes. His bizarre behavior included fire setting and stealing, both of which may have represented compulsions. ⋯ Between episodes, his EEG was normal. The relationship between Kleine-Levin syndrome and other sleep disorders is discussed. The neurochemistry and neurocircuitry that may provide the requisite substrate for this complex and fascinating neuropsychiatric disorder are briefly reviewed.