Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

A Behavioral Screen for Heat-Induced Seizures in Mouse Models of Epilepsy
Published on: July 12, 2021
[Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of febrile convulsions]
1Oulun yliopisto, lastentautien klinikka 90014 Oulun yliopisto.
Insights
Febrile seizures in children require consideration of central nervous system infections. Current treatments do not prevent recurrences, and medications offer more harm than benefit.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Febrile seizures are common in children.
- Distinguishing febrile seizures from epileptic seizures is crucial.
Purpose:
- To outline diagnostic and management strategies for febrile seizures in children.
- To clarify when a febrile seizure should be treated as an epileptic seizure.
Summary:
- Central nervous system infections must be ruled out in febrile children with convulsions.
- Febrile seizures lasting over five minutes are managed as epileptic seizures.
- Recurrences of febrile seizures are not preventable with current therapies.
- Antiepileptic drugs and antipyretics are not recommended due to adverse effects outweighing benefits.
Impact:
- Provides guidance on appropriate diagnostic investigations for febrile seizures.
- Emphasizes the importance of parental education and reassurance in managing febrile seizures.
Abstract:
In cases involving a febrile child having convulsions, the possibility of infections of the central nervous system should be considered and the necessary diagnostic investigations performed. If the febrile convulsion does not end by itself in five minutes, it will be treated as an epileptic seizure. Recurrences cannot be prevented by current treatments. Antiepileptic drugs should not be used, because their adverse effects are larger than the benefit. Antipyretics are not helpful in the prevention of seizures. An essential part of the treatment is informing and reassuring the parents.
Related Concept Videos
Methods of reducing fever
Pharmacological Methods of Reducing Fever:
Increased Body Temperature
Seizures l: Introduction
Seizures: Classification
Seizures are typically classified into two main categories: focal and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures originate from specific regions of the brain. These seizures are further sub-classified into two types:
Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

