Febrile seizure

Question 1

What is febrile seizure?

Answer 1

Seizures that are associated with fever (mainly temperatures exceeding 38°C (100.4°F)) in the absence of CNS infection, metabolic abnormalities, or a history of afebrile seizures.

Question 2

What are the clinical features of febrile seizure?

Answer 2

Typically occur between the ages of 6 months and 5 years
(Simple febrile seizure) Generalized, usually tonic-clonic seizures
Symmetrical
No neuro defects
< 15 min
Quick return to normal
(Complex febrile seizure) 15-30 minutes
focal
(Febrile status epilepticus) > 30 minutes

Question 3

What is the treatment for febrile seizure?

Answer 3

(Uncomplicated seizures) Self-limiting

(≥ 5 min or complex) Abortive therapy (i.e. IV lorezapam) or IV diazepam or buccal/intranasal midazolam