Child Epilepsy & Febrile Seizures

 

Feature/CriteriaChild EpilepsyFebrile Seizures
Age RangeVaries widely; can occur at any age6 months – 6 years (peak at 14-18 months)
TriggerMultiple triggers (e.g., stress, sleep deprivation)Fever >39°C
Family HistoryPossible, but not strongly linked10% risk if a first-degree relative has had febrile seizures
Type of SeizureCan be generalized or focalUsually generalized tonic-clonic
DurationVariesSimple: <15 minutes; Complex: Prolonged or recurrent
Associated SymptomsMay or may not be associated with feverAlways associated with fever
Rule Out MeningitisNot typically requiredMust rule out, especially if meningitis is highly suspected
Initial InvestigationEEG, MRI, etc.Blood and urine tests
Additional TestsMay include lumbar punctureLumbar puncture only if meningitis is highly suspicious
TreatmentAntiepileptic drugsAntipyretics like Paracetamol; benzodiazepines for seizures lasting >5 minutes

Further Reading

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