Febrile seizure

A febrile seizure is an epileptic seizure that is triggered by fever. They usually occur between the ages of 3 months to 5 years. A febrile seizure does not indicate epilepsy (<5% develop epilepsy). The prognosis is excellent.

They usually occur in isolation, but in 10% of cases they may recur during other febrile processes. They usually occur in the first 24 hours of an illness and not necessarily when the fever is at its peak.

Febrile seizures are often hereditary.