Abstract: | Febrile convulsions are the commonest form of seizure under the age of 2, occurring in 2–4% of children in the UK. The majority occur between 12–18 months and are more common in those with a family history. The aetiology is multi-factorial, although most episodes occur in children with viral infections. In most children the seizure will have self-resolved prior to coming to hospital and the child may be back to normal. No investigation or treatment is necessary. However, it is important to appreciate that for parents who have witnessed the episode, it will have been extremely distressing and frightening. In addition, there are many myths and misconceptions held by parents particularly in relation to the association with fever and further episodes, as well as the concerns surrounding longer term outcomes. Reassurance and clear advice given by clinicians is therefore one of the most important aspects to management. This review gives a practical approach to management for clinicians and enables them to give informed and up to date guidance to parents, thus allowing them to feel confident about how to manage their child at home if they were to have further episodes, as well as providing reassurance about the harmless nature of febrile convulsions. |