Childhood Gratification Syndrome Managed with Acupuncture: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Childhood gratification syndrome (CGS), also referred to as infantile gratification or infantile masturbation, is a benign but frequently misdiagnosed behavioural phenomenon in infancy and early childhood. Episodes commonly mimic epileptic seizures or movement disorders, giving rise to unnecessary investigations. While most cases are managed conservatively with reassurance and behavioural guidance, severe presentations with marked nocturnal dysregulation and multi-domain disturbance cause significant challenges for families, and evidence-based treatment options remain limited.

Case presentation: A 13-month-old female presented with a three-month history of escalating gratification behaviour, occurring up to five times per hour when awake, accompanied by nightly episodes of prolonged screaming. The patient had significant early psychosocial stress due to family separation and exposure to war-related trauma. Comprehensive medical evaluation, including electroencephalogram (EEG) and imaging, excluded epilepsy and structural abnormalities. A diagnosis of CGS was established.

Intervention: The patient underwent 24 sessions of age-appropriate acupuncture. Phase 1 targeted the Ren channel with gentle, non-retained needling and press-needle stimulation. Phase 2 consolidated Ren treatment and incorporated the other eight extraordinary and primary acupuncture channels to manage emerging symptoms. Phase 3 focused on the Lung, Large Intestine, and Stomach luo (superficial connecting) channel involvement using light bleeding, gua sha, and minimal retention needling, with continued Ren channel support. The intervention was guided by a traditional East Asian medicine (TEAM) framework, emphasizing early channel development, resolution of accumulated emotional pathology, and shen regulation.

Outcomes: Gratification behaviour was reduced to brief, pre-sleep self-soothing episodes. Nighttime screaming decreased in both duration and intensity. Self-induced vomiting, gagging, biting, and head banging improved following luo vessel treatment. Sleep, appetite, and overall daily regulation showed marked improvement. No adverse effects were observed.

Summary: This case demonstrates the potential of utilizing extraordinary and luo vessel techniques as an adjunct to conservative management in complex, trauma-associated CGS. These findings afford a springboard for future research into TEAM-guided interventions for early regulatory disorders.