febrile seizure classification
Febrile seizures can be broadly divided into simple or complex based on duration, recurrence, and the presence of focal features
feature | simple febrile seizure | complex febrile seizures |
duration | short (<15 minutes) | longer (>15 minutes) |
focal features | generalised tonic-clonic features are typical (stiffening of muscles followed by rhythmical jerking or shaking) | focal seizures with or without secondary generalisation |
recurrence | no recurrence within the next 24 hours | may present with repetitive seizures during the next 24 hours |
postictal features | no postictal pathology | Todd’s paresis may be present (a period of paresis of affected limbs) |
SA subgroup of complex febrile seizures known as febrile status epilepticus (FSE) - seizures lasting more than 30 minutes - is present in around 5% of cases (1)
Reference:
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