The increase in serum levels of CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α are important risk factors for atherosclerosis, cerebrovascular accident (stroke) and cardiovascular diseases,11 and their levels are increased in OSAS.12, 13, 14 It is possible that OSAS affects not only the pro-inflammatory cytokines, but also blocks the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-10, that inhibits a wide range of pro-inflammatory responses, including those affecting the vessel wall.15, 16, 17. This evidence concerns the gene TNF and Stroke.