Cause-treatment efficiency of epileptic seizures in newborn

Abstract

Introduction. Epileptic seizures (ES) represent one of the most frequent clinical manifestations in newborns, with a frequency of 1-5 cases in 1000 live births. The risk factors that can cause ES are different and correlate with the developing immature brain and underlying brain lesions. Purpose. Research of the causes that could lead to ES in newborns and analysis of the administered anti-epileptic medication, in order to appreciate the cause-treatment efficiency. Material and methods. Retrospecive study based on the analysis of 24 medical records of full-term newborns, that had ES in the neonatal period. Investigation methodes: cerebrospinal fluid analysis, neurosonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography, metabolic tests. Results. The remission of ES occured especially in children with hypoxic-ischemic injury and neuroinfections. Conclusions. Neonatal ES are atypical in comparance with other age groups and they correlate with the preexisting brain lesions. The response to antiepileptic medication differs depending on the types of seizure and the cause. In order to identify ES, the research of their causes through additional investigations is needed, neuroimaging and screening for metabolic disorders inclusively.