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.
Zupanc
Mary L
ML
Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, 9000 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee 53226, USA. mzupanc@mcw.edu
D004569:Electroencephalography; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012640:Seizures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome