Senthilkumar Jaganathan1, Sankaranarayanan Muthulingam2
BACKGROUND
Neonatal seizures are seizures occurring less than 28 days of life. Though neonatal seizures have been studied in various institutions, reported incidence varies widely because of inconsistent diagnostic criteria and subtle manifestation of neonatal seizures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This is a prospective study. All neonates delivered and developed seizures within 28 days of life were enrolled in this study to study the clinical profile of neonatal seizures like aetiology, various types, time of onset of seizures and biochemical abnormalities. The results are analysed using Epi info software.
RESULTS
Incidence of neonatal seizures was 11.7/1000 livebirths. Neonatal seizures were more common in preterm, LBW and twin deliveries. Also, higher among those delivered by breech and forceps deliveries.
CONCLUSION
Subtle seizures were more common in preterm neonates and in 24-72 hours of life, while multifocal seizures were more common in term neonates and in <24 hours of life. Mortality was higher in LBW and preterm babies. There was no difference in the immediate outcome of neonatal seizures with intrauterine nutritional status.
