Seizures in infants

Seizures in infants (3-12 months): Types and causes

Seizures in infants are always a concerning symptom that requires immediate medical attention. They are a sudden, uncontrolled surge of electrical activity in the brain that can manifest as abrupt movements or changes in consciousness. In children aged 3 to 12 months, the most common type is febrile seizures, triggered by high temperature. However, it is important to also be aware of other afebrile (non‑febrile) seizures.

Types of seizures in infants

In addition to classic tonic‑clonic attacks, infants may exhibit specific seizure types:

• Febrile seizures: Occur on the background of fever in children from 6 months old. Usually benign.
• Infantile spasms (West syndrome): A rare but very serious form of epilepsy that presents at 4–8 months of age. Appears as brief, repetitive head jerks, trunk flexion, or arm extension ("salaam attacks"). Requires immediate diagnosis and treatment.
• Focal seizures: Jerking limited to one part of the body (arm, leg, corner of the mouth).

Causes of afebrile seizures

If seizures occur without fever, they may be a sign of epilepsy or other conditions such as the aftermath of trauma, infection, or congenital brain anomalies. It is important to distinguish seizures from other abnormal movements. Any seizure episode is a reason to call emergency services and arrange further evaluation by a pediatric neurologist.