Febrile convulsion--an overview.

Febrile convulsion is the most frequently occurring epilepsy syndrome, experienced in infants/children between 6 months and 5 years of age associated with fever >38 degrees C. Children having first or second degree relative with history of febrile convulsion, neonatal nursery stay of more than 30 days, developmental delay or attendance at day care centre are at increased risk of developing febrile convulsion. Single febrile convulsion does not increase the risk of epilepsy and there is no causal relationship between febrile convulsion and subsequent epilepsy. It has been recognised that there is significant genetic component for susceptibility to febrile seizures. To make the diagnosis of febrile convulsion, meningitis, encephalitis, serious electrolyte imbalance and other acute neurologic illnesses are to be excluded. While managing acute attack the steps to be taken are--airway management, a semi-prone position to avoid aspiration, monitoring vital signs and other supportive care. Diazepam or lorazepam is the drug to be used. There is no reason to expect phenobarbitone administered at the time of fever to be effective in prevention of febrile convulsion. The parents should be counselled about the benign nature of the convulsion. Although the febrile convulsion a frightening event, still it is a benign condition.