CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF FEBRILE SEIZURES IN CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE

Abstract

Background: Febrile seizures (FS) are the most common seizure disorder in children under five years, often triggered by fever without intracranial infection. Although generally benign, they can cause significant parental anxiety and, in some cases, lead to recurrence or later epilepsy, warranting evaluation of clinical outcomes and risk factors. Objectives: To assess the clinical outcomes, recurrence rates, and predictors of adverse neurological events among children under five years presenting with febrile seizures.

Study design: A cross-sectional Study.

Place and duration of the study: Department of Pediatrics Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan from Jan 2023 to jan 2024.

Methodology: 100 children aged 6 months to 5 years presenting with FS. Data regarding seizure type, duration, family history, and recurrence were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 24.0, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: The study included 100 patients with a mean age of 30.4 ± 12.6 months. Simple febrile seizures were observed in 72%, while complex febrile seizures occurred in 28%. A family history of seizures was present in 22% of cases. Recurrence occurred in 18% of patients, and 2% developed epilepsy. A statistically significant association was found between complex seizures and recurrence (p = 0.032).

Conclusion: Most children with febrile seizures have favorable outcomes with minimal risk of long-term neurological complications. However, complex FS and a positive family history significantly increase recurrence risk, highlighting the importance of parental education, early identification, and regular follow-up for better clinical management.