Neonatal seizures.
Neonatal seizures typically indicate significant underlying disease.They are poorly classified, under-recognized, and often difficult to treat. Recognition of etiology is often helpful in prognosis and treatment; the most common is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Patients generally have a poor prognosis, with most developing a severe encephalopathy and epilepsy. Studies suggest that neonatal seizures and their etiology have a significant impact on the developing brain; it is critical to recognize seizures early and initiate immediate antiepileptic therapy. Continuous computerized simultaneous video electroencephalograph monitoring is imperative;at-risk infants will frequently have electrographic seizures without clinical manifestations. Although there are antiepileptic therapies for neonatal seizures, they are ineffective in over 35% of cases. The goal of research should be the development of more effective therapies for neonatal seizures, regardless of etiology.
Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, 9000 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee 53226, USA. mzupanc@mcw.edu
Mary L
ML
Zupanc
D004569:Electroencephalography; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012640:Seizures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome