Melatonin replacement corrects sleep disturbances in a child with pineal tumor

Abstract

Article abstract-A child with a germ cell tumor involving the pineal region had marked suppressed melatonin secretion associated with severe insomnia. Exogenous melatonin (3 mg in the evening) for 2 weeks restored sleep continuity, as demonstrated by objective monitoring of rest-activity cycles. This case report provides direct evidence of the essential role of melatonin in normal sleep.NEUROLOGY 1996;46: 261-263