Children with COVID-19 Who Manifest Febrile Seizure

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• Limited studies exist on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in pediatric populations.
• COVID-19 presents unique challenges for healthcare providers globally.

Observation:

• A 2-year, 7-month-old boy presented with atypical generalized seizures, fever, cough, rhinorrhea, and shortness of breath.
• Chest X-ray revealed right lobar pneumonia and bronchopneumonia.
• Initial SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid test was positive on the third day of hospitalization.

Findings:

• The patient received standard antiseizure and antibiotic therapy per Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) guidelines.
• The child responded well to treatment, with no further seizure episodes.
• Repeat SARS-CoV-2 testing turned negative after twelve days, coinciding with radiographic lung improvement.

Implications:

• This case underscores the varied clinical presentations of COVID-19 in children, including neurological symptoms like seizures.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric SARS-CoV-2 infections.
• Highlights the need for continued research into pediatric COVID-19 to better understand its diverse manifestations and long-term effects.