Feature/Criteria | Child Epilepsy | Febrile Seizures |
Age Range | Varies widely; can occur at any age | 6 months – 6 years (peak at 14-18 months) |
Trigger | Multiple triggers (e.g., stress, sleep deprivation) | Fever >39°C |
Family History | Possible, but not strongly linked | 10% risk if a first-degree relative has had febrile seizures |
Type of Seizure | Can be generalized or focal | Usually generalized tonic-clonic |
Duration | Varies | Simple: <15 minutes; Complex: Prolonged or recurrent |
Associated Symptoms | May or may not be associated with fever | Always associated with fever |
Rule Out Meningitis | Not typically required | Must rule out, especially if meningitis is highly suspected |
Initial Investigation | EEG, MRI, etc. | Blood and urine tests |
Additional Tests | May include lumbar puncture | Lumbar puncture only if meningitis is highly suspicious |
Treatment | Antiepileptic drugs | Antipyretics like Paracetamol; benzodiazepines for seizures lasting >5 minutes |