Which laboratory tests should be performed on children with apparent febrile convulsions? An analysis and review of the literature.

There exist wide variations among clinicians as to management of the child who presents with the first febrile convulsion. In 1980, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a consensus statement on febrile convulsions which included recommendations for initial management. Multiple studies have also addressed this topic. From these studies, guidelines for management have been drawn. Review of these studies reveals little scientific support for current management strategies. The decision to perform lumbar puncture is analyzed as an example of the practical limits of clinical investigations. Reliance upon consensus clinical opinion is therefore recommended.