Clinical Characteristics and Presentation Patterns of Pediatric Seizures: A Cross Sectional Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Seizures frequently occur in children, particularly those under 3 years old, and stem from unusual brain activity that impacts awareness and movement. Factors encompass infections, fever, metabolic problems, and perinatal damage. Diagnosis is mainly clinical, augmented by EEG and imaging. This research analyzes the clinical characteristics and presentation of pediatric seizures at a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Emergency, Observation & Referral (EOR) of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute from March 2025 to February 2026 and involved 55 children (0-14 years) experiencing new or recurring seizures. Information regarding sociodemographic traits, clinical attributes, seizure classification, and causes was gathered and assessed through descriptive statistics. Ethical consent and informed approval were secured. Results: In a group of 55 children, the majority were aged 1-5 years (43.6%), with a higher number of males (58.2%) and an average age of 4.8 ± 3.2 years. Fever (65.5%) was the most prevalent symptom. Generalized tonic-clonic seizures were more common (67.3%), with the majority lasting less than 15 minutes (70.9%), whereas 29.1% were extended. Laboratory anomalies included hyponatremia (30.9%), hypocalcemia (20%), anemia (34.5%), and elevated CRP (40%). Febrile seizures (63.6%) were the primary reason, with CNS infections (16.4%) and metabolic factors (10.9%) following. Conclusion: Pediatric seizures occurred most frequently in young children, particularly in boys aged 1-5 years. Febrile seizures were the primary cause, with the generalized tonic-clonic type being the most common. Timely diagnosis and swift intervention are crucial for better outcome.