Neonatal brainstem dysfunction is a rare neurologic disease characterized by the association of suction-swallowing dysfunction, abnormal laryngeal sensitivity and motility (manifesting with dyspnea or obstructive apnea-hypopnea), gastroesophageal reflux (generally resistant to medication) and cardiac vagal overactivity (e.g. brachycardia, vasovagal episodes) of varying degrees of severity. Impaired social interaction has also been reported.