[Excessive crying in infants in the first months of life: review]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neonatology
• Infant Behavior

Background:

• Infant cry-fuss problems are a frequent clinical issue in early infancy.
• These behaviors result from a complex interaction of cultural, psychosocial, environmental, and biological influences.
• Organic causes are identified in only 5% of cases, highlighting the multifactorial nature of these presentations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent evidence on the clinical management of infant cry-fuss problems.
• To propose a reconceptualization of the definition of infant colic.
• To emphasize a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to understanding and managing infant distress.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent evidence.
• Analysis of factors contributing to infant cry-fuss behavior.
• Conceptual review of infant colic definition.

Main Results:

• Cry-fuss behavior is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay of various factors.
• Organic disturbances are rarely the primary cause of excessive infant crying.
• A biopsychosocial model is most effective for clinical management.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of infant cry-fuss problems requires a holistic biopsychosocial approach.
• Reconceptualizing infant colic definition is necessary to reflect its complex etiology.
• Understanding the interplay of factors is crucial for addressing infant distress effectively.