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Am J Perinatol 2006; 23(7): 421-422
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-951291
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Hyperexcitability Syndrome in a Newborn Infant of Chocoholic Mother

Sara Cambria1 , Rosa Manganaro1 , Carmelo Mamì1 , Lucia Marseglia1 , Marina Gemelli1
  • 1Department of Pediatric and Surgical Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Publication History

Publication Date:
28 September 2006 (online)

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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

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