Affiliation:
1. Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milano, Italy
2. Postgraduate School of Paediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy
Abstract
Neonatal seizures are relatively common, but their diagnosis and management remain challenging. We reviewed the scientific literature on neonatal seizures from July 1973 to November 2023. Several parameters were considered, including pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, electroencephalographic findings and treatment. Recent classification system of seizures and epilepsies in the newborn, as well as treatment recommendations of neonatal seizures, have been proposed. Nonetheless, the approach to neonatal seizures varies among clinicians and centres, including detection, investigation, treatment and follow-up of patients. There are still many issues on the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal seizures, including the meaning or relevance of some electroencephalographic findings, the precise estimation of the seizure burden, the limited efficacy and side effects risk of antiseizure medications, and the best measures to establish the outcome.
Subject
Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health