What is a Febrile Seizure?

A febrile seizure (FS) is the most common type of seizure in the pediatric population, with an incidence of 3-5%. It typically occurs in children between 6 months and 6 years of age, peaking at 18 months. Half of the children who experience FS have their first febrile seizure between 12 and 30 months.

Causes and Risk Factors

FS is often associated with upper respiratory tract infections, tonsillitis, otitis media, and urinary tract infections. Risk factors include a family history of FS, neurodevelopmental delays, premature birth, and prolonged stays in neonatal intensive care units.

Types of FS

• Simple FS: Generalized seizures lasting less than 15 minutes, occurring once in 24 hours, without neurological abnormalities.

• Complex FS: Seizures lasting more than 15 minutes, occurring more than once in 24 hours, possibly with focal onset and postictal neurological findings.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is based on medical history and physical examination. EEG and CNS imaging are generally unnecessary in simple FS but may be required in complex cases. Treatment aims to stop the acute seizure, prevent recurrence, and educate families to alleviate fever-related anxiety.

Parental Guidance

Parents should understand that febrile seizures are usually benign and do not cause permanent brain damage. During a seizure, the child should be placed on their side, nothing should be inserted into the mouth, and medical assistance should be sought if the seizure lasts longer than 10 minutes.