Risk factors following first spontaneous epileptic seizure in children below 3 years of age.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the recurrence rate after the first spontaneous epileptic seizure in pediatric patients, and determine the related risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 190 infants (aged between one month and three years) admitted after first spontaneous epileptic seizure to Soochow University Affiliated Children's Hospital between April 2009 and April 2011 were retrospectively analyzed; patients were followed up until April 2014. The recurrence rate and risk factors of recurrence were analyzed based on central nervous system imaging data (computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging), electroencephalogram (EEG) and developmental quotient assessment.

RESULTS

Of the 190 infants, 11 cases (5.79%) were lost to follow-up. The cumulative recurrence rate of spontaneous epileptic seizure after five years was 52%. A total of 82% recurrence cases occurred within the first year. Age > 24 months (odds ratio (OR) = 0.498༌95% confidence interval (CI): 0.285-0.869) was an independent protective factor, while symptomatic seizure (OR = 1.624, 95% CI: 1.020-2.587), seizure during sleep (OR = 2.779, 95% CI: 1.757-4.397) and epileptic discharge in EEG (OR=3.269, 95% CI: 2.049-5.217) were independent risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Recurrence rate is high in infants after the first spontaneous epileptic seizure, and recurrence is more likely to occur within one year.