Abstract

A STUDY OF INCIDENCE, TYPES, ETIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT OF SEIZURES IN CHILDREN OF AGE GROUP 5 MONTHS TO 6 YEARS IN PEDIATRICS I.C.U/WARD IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Ravi Prakash Degala*, G. Lakshmi Prasanna, A. Charan Kishore, B. Satya Lakshmi Bhavani, G. Raji, S. Sri Lakshmi and M. Swathi

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Abstract

Background: Seizures are among the most common neurological emergencies in pediatric patients, particularly in children under 6 years of age. Early identification of seizure type, underlying etiology, and timely management are critical to improving outcomes and reducing complications. Objective: To evaluate the incidence, classify the types, identify the etiology, and assess the management strategies of seizures in children aged 5 months to 6 years admitted to the Pediatric ICU/ward of a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted over a period of 12 months in the Pediatrics Department of a tertiary care hospital. A total of 109 children aged 5 months to 6 years presenting with seizures were included. Detailed clinical history, physical examination, laboratory investigations, neuroimaging, and EEG findings were recorded. Seizures were classified as febrile, afebrile, generalized, focal, and others. Management strategies, including pharmacological interventions and supportive care, were also documented and analyzed. Results: Out of 150 pediatric admissions, 109 presented with seizures. Febrile seizures were the most common type followed by afebrile generalized seizures. The leading etiologies included febrile illness (30.2%), CNS infections (29.3%), and cerebral palsy (17.4%). Most patients responded well to first-line anticonvulsants such as phenytoin (27.5%) and Clobazam(21.1%). Conclusion: Seizures are a frequent presentation in the pediatric age group, with febrile seizures being the most prevalent. Timely recognition of seizure type and underlying etiology is vital for effective management and prognosis. Strengthening early diagnostic services and pediatric critical care can significantly reduce seizure-related morbidity.

Keywords: Seizures, Pediatrics, Febrile Seizures, Etiology, Management, Pediatric ICU, Children 5 months–6 years.