Neonatal Seizures

Neonatal seizures are commonly encountered in the neonatal intensive care unit and are often a sign of underlying acute brain injury. Seizures in this age group have high rates of subclinical or electrographic only features, and thus continuous EEG monitoring is necessary for accurate and prompt diagnosis. Treatment of seizures is considered emergent, as ongoing seizures can amplify brain injury and worsen neurodevelopmental outcomes. Specific antiseizure medications used in this age group come from expert experience and consensus, but further clinical trials are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of newer medications that may be less toxic to the developing brain.