Febrile seizures: current concepts concerning prognosis and clinical management.

Febrile seizures are a common problem in young children. Most febrile seizures are benign in nature, although a small percentage of children may develop recurring febrile seizures or afebrile seizures. The approach to the management of this disorder varies widely from specialty to specialty despite the recent publication of studies that provide for rational treatment of febrile seizures. Most children do not need any treatment after a first simple febrile seizure. In certain children who are at risk for recurrent febrile seizures, rectal anticonvulsants should be considered for acute, short-term management. Long-term anticonvulsants should be reserved for patients who are unable to use rectal anticonvulsants or who have significant risk factors for the development of afebrile seizures.