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Fifth day fits in the newborn.
K N North1, G N Storey, D J Henderson-Smart
1Department of Perinatal Medicine, King George V Memorial Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.
Australian Paediatric Journal
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Neonatal convulsions, or "fifth day fits," affected healthy infants in the 1970s. These seizures were difficult to treat and their cause remained unknown, highlighting a significant neonatal health concern.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- An epidemic of neonatal convulsions, termed 'fifth day fits,' occurred in the 1970s.
- This syndrome affected apparently healthy infants on the fourth and fifth days of life.
- The condition was observed in multiple countries, including France and Australia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the experience with 'fifth day fits' at King George V Hospital (KGV).
- To analyze the incidence and characteristics of these neonatal convulsions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of all neonatal convulsions at KGV between 1972 and 1985.
- Analysis of case data for infants presenting with 'fifth day fits'.
Main Results:
- 94 cases of 'fifth day fits' were identified, comprising 57% of neonatal convulsions from 1972-79.
- Seizures occurred in healthy term infants post-uncomplicated pregnancies, appearing on days 4-5 of life.
- Fits averaged 24 hours, were drug-refractory, had no identified cause, and infants appeared normal at discharge.
Conclusions:
- The 'fifth day fit' syndrome was a significant neonatal health issue in the 1970s.
- Despite appearing benign initially, the long-term prognosis remains uncertain due to incomplete follow-up.
- No cases have been reported at KGV since 1982, suggesting a potential resolution or change in the syndrome.