Febrile seizures

A febrile seizure is defined by the following:
-3 months and 5 years of age
-associated with fever but without evidence of intracranial infection. 
-Seizures with fever in children with history of nonfebrile seizures are excluded.


Typical febrile seizures:
-Lasts <15 minutes
-Occurs no more than once in 24 hours
-Is generalized tonic clonic


Lumbar puncture is Indicated only to rule out meningitis or encephalitis if signs or symptoms suggestive of these illnesses are present.


Treatment of simple/typical febrile seizures:



Treat the cause of fever (most are viral infections and do not require antibiotics). Antipyretics are used in adequate amounts until the risk of fever abates. Antipyretics are of no direct value in preventing febrile seizures or their recurrence nor do they slow temperature elevation during fever.