Neonatal seizure

Neonatal seizure refers to a seizure that occurs within the first 28 days of life in a full-term infant or within the 44 post-conceptual weeks in a preterm infant. This condition is a significant neurological issue in the neonatal period and is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

The etiology of neonatal seizures is diverse and can be categorized into prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal causes. Prenatal causes include genetic disorders, congenital malformations, and intrauterine infections. Perinatal causes are usually related to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy due to birth asphyxia. Postnatal causes include intracranial hemorrhage, meningitis, and metabolic disorders such as hypoglycemia.

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

Neonatal seizures often present differently from seizures in older children and adults. They are often subtle, with manifestations such as eye deviation, blinking, chewing, and pedaling movements. More severe seizures can cause tonic-clonic movements.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of neonatal seizures is primarily clinical, but it is supported by electroencephalogram (EEG) findings. An EEG is essential to confirm the diagnosis and to differentiate epileptic seizures from non-epileptic movements.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment of neonatal seizures involves the management of the underlying cause and the use of antiepileptic drugs. The first-line treatment is usually with phenobarbital or phenytoin. Newer drugs such as levetiracetam are also being used.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis of neonatal seizures depends on the underlying cause. Seizures due to reversible causes such as metabolic disorders have a better prognosis than those due to structural brain damage.

Neonatal seizure Resources
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