Hyperexcitability syndrome in a newborn infant of chocoholic mother

• Published in: American journal of perinatology Vol. 23; no. 7; p. 421
• Main Authors: Cambria, Sara, Manganaro, Rosa, Mamì, Carmelo, Marseglia, Lucia, Gemelli, Marina
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-10-2006
• Subjects: Cacao - adverse effects; Diet; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Maternal-Fetal Exchange; Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome - etiology; Pregnancy; Psychomotor Agitation - etiology; Syndrome
• ISSN: 0735-1631
• DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-951291

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.