Febrile myoclonus: an underreported, benign condition in infancy often misinterpreted as febrile seizures

Massive myoclonic jerks, often presenting in a dramatic fashion during a febrile illness, have rarely been reported and have usually been related to as febrile seizures. Febrile myoclonus is usually a benign phenomenon with no neurological sequelae. However, it may be impressive enough to provoke unnecessary diagnostic workup and treatment in these patients. Thus, its recognition by the emergency room or by the primary care physician is important to provide reassurance to the parents or caregivers and to prevent unwarranted hospitalizations and diagnostic procedures such as lumbar puncture and electroencephalogram. We describe 3 cases of febrile myoclonus and briefly review this subject.