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Neonatal Seizures

A seizure in a newborn may be a sign of a serious underlying brain pathology.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Neonatal Seizures?

Neonatal seizures present clinically differently from adults due to cortical immaturity; subtle, clonic, tonic and myoclonic forms exist. Most seizures can be confirmed with EEG, but electro-clinical dissociation is common.

The most common cause is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), followed by intracranial hemorrhage, metabolic disorders (hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia), infections, inborn metabolic diseases and congenital malformations.

Diagnosis includes EEG, cranial ultrasound/MRI and metabolic screening. Phenobarbital is the first-line anticonvulsant; phenytoin, levetiracetam and midazolam are used in resistant cases. Hypothermia is recommended as neuroprotective therapy in HIE.

Symptoms

Subtle seizures (sucking, pedaling, eye deviation)
Clonic contractions
Generalized tonic contractions
Myoclonic jerks
Apnea and breathing irregularity
Cyanosis

Risk Factors

Perinatal asphyxia
Prematurity
Intrauterine infection
Maternal diabetes
Metabolic disorders
Family history

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When rhythmic contractions or tremors are seen in the newborn
  • When unexplained apnea develops
  • When abnormal eye movements or pedal movements are noticed
  • When accompanied by cyanosis attack
  • Emergency admission in any seizure suspicion

Treatment Methods

01
Emergency correction of glucose, electrolyte and calcium
02
IV phenobarbital loading
03
Phenytoin/levetiracetam in resistant seizure
04
Therapeutic hypothermia in HIE
05
Evaluation with EEG and imaging
06
Metabolic and infection workup

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.