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Simple febrile seizure — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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EasySeizuresSimple febrile seizureMCCQE Part 1

A 19-month-old child has a 2-minute generalized tonic-clonic seizure during a febrile illness. She is now alert, neurologically normal, and has a temperature of 39.1°C. There is no neck stiffness and no focal deficit. What should you tell this patient?

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Correct answer: E — This was likely a simple febrile seizure and does not require long-term antiseizure medication

A brief generalized seizure in a neurologically normal toddler with fever and rapid return to baseline is a simple febrile seizure. Long-term antiseizure medication is not indicated. Epilepsy is not diagnosed from a single simple febrile seizure. The key counselling point is reassurance plus advice on fever care and when to return.

Reference: CPS febrile seizures guidance