• Mônica Ayres de Araújo Scattolin, Catherine Marx, Ruth Guinsburg, Marcelo Rodrigues Masruha, and Luiz Celso Pereira Vilanova.
• Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil. monica_scattolin@yahoo.com.br
• Sao Paulo Med J. 2012 Jan 1; 130 (6): 409412409-12.

ContextNewborns may present a range of motor phenomena that are not epileptic in nature. Chin tremor is an unusual movement disorder that typically starts in early childhood and may be precipitated by stress and emotion. Its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated.Case ReportWe describe a full-term newborn that, immediately after neonatal anoxia, presented body and chin tremors that were unresponsive to anti-epileptic drugs. Subsequent neurological evaluation revealed signs of pyramidal tract damage and chin tremor triggered by percussion and crying. We discuss the hypothesis that the anatomopathological abnormality may lie at the level of the higher cortical centers or midbrain.ConclusionsFurther studies are needed in order to gain greater comprehension of neonatal tremors. Recognition of the various etiological possibilities and consequent management of treatable causes is essential for care optimization.

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