Pediatric Febrile Seizures Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Nov 09, 2018
  • Author: Robert J Baumann, MD; Chief Editor: Amy Kao, MD  more...
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DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Now recognized are genetic epilepsies which may present in the first year of life with recurrent febrile seizures or seizures after immunizations, before the syndrome is fully recognized in the patient. These include Generalized Epilepsy with Febrile Seizures Plus and Dravet Syndrome, which both can be caused by a mutation in the gene for a sodium channel subunit. A family history of seizures and epilepsy may suggest the former; development of focal or myoclonic seizures and developmental delay in the second year of life may suggest the latter.

Differential Diagnoses