Patient's question:
My son is 6 years old and weighs 30 kilograms. The child had a high fever and convulsions in September 2005 and another episode of convulsions last October. On May 10 of this year, the child had another attack, similar to last year's (developing chickenpox the next day). On June 9, the child had another convulsion due to mumps-induced encephalitis, which lasted for a long time. The first and last year's episodes were similar, while the second and third episodes were completely different (the two were also different). I realized that my child's condition had worsened, and on June 15, he was cured of encephalitis at Hebei Provincial Children's Hospital. On June 21, a 24-hour dynamic EEG was performed at Hebei Provincial Children's Hospital, with the following results:Hebei Provincial Children's Hospital Brain Holter Report: The dynamic EEG examination showed no clinical seizures. Background activity: During wakefulness and quietness, the bilateral occipital regions primarily showed θ and α rhythms at 6–8 Hz, 50–60 μV, with roughly symmetrical sides. Regulation and amplitude were acceptable. Eye closure response: α waves were suppressed during eye closure. Hyperventilation was not achieved. Sleep waves: Sleep waves and sleep cycles were largely normal (sleep duration: from 8:17 PM to 4:30 AM). Abnormal waves: In all wakefulness and sleep stages, high-amplitude slow waves at 3–4 Hz were mainly observed in the left frontal, central, and temporal regions, with occasional sharp waves in the left frontal region. Impression: Abnormal pediatric EEG. The child struggled to stay calm during the examination and frequently lost his temper.
Doctor's answer:
Children with high fever are prone to seizures, but most are not epilepsy. Epileptic seizures are generally not accompanied by fever. An electroencephalogram cannot determine the type of epilepsy. What you need to do now is observe your child to see if they have seizures under normal circumstances. Seizures that occur with high fever do not count. If seizures occur even when your child is normal or if there is a loss of consciousness (e.g., they don’t respond when called), you should pay attention. If a seizure occurs, you should be admitted to the hospital for observation to determine the type of epilepsy and develop a treatment plan based on individual circumstances.Personally, I believe your child’s seizures are likely caused by fever and may not leave any aftereffects. Your child is frequently infected with viruses, whether it’s chickenpox or mumps, both of which are caused by viral infections. I recommend strengthening your child’s physical exercise on a regular basis and also paying attention to whether other classmates at school are sick. If they are, take precautions to protect yourself (e.g., by taking leave) to avoid further brain infections.