ABSTRACT
We present a case of hyperexcitability syndrome observed in a neonate born to a mother
who was a heavy user of cocoa and chocolate during pregnancy and lactation. The infant
presented jitteriness, irritability, inconsolable crying, excessive sucking, and sleeping
difficulties almost immediately after birth. The infant underwent extensive diagnostic
studies, but none of the usual causes for its symptoms were identified. The symptoms
resolved after the interruption of maternal chocolate consumption. We hypothesize
that the heavy exposure to chocolate could be responsible for the hyperexcitability
syndrome.
KEYWORDS
Hyperexcitability syndrome - chocolate - neonate
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Prof.
Marina GemelliM.D.
Divisione di Neonatologia, Policlinico-Università di Messina
98100 Messina, Italia
