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Febrile Seizure — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyNeurology & DevelopmentFebrile SeizureRACP Paediatrics

A 5-year-old boy has a febrile seizure that lasts 20 minutes and is focal, involving the left arm and leg only. He is febrile at 39°C with an upper respiratory tract infection. He has a normal neurological examination after full recovery. How is this seizure classified?

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Correct answer: A — Complex febrile seizure

A complex (atypical) febrile seizure has one or more of the following features: duration >15 minutes, focal features, recurrence within 24 hours, or incomplete recovery within 1 hour. This seizure is complex due to both prolonged duration (20 minutes) and focal features. Further investigation (EEG, neuroimaging) may be considered for complex febrile seizures, particularly in younger children.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Febrile Seizure