Simple vs complex febrile seizure classification
HIGH-YIELD
Appears 2×
Teaching point — how the wording changes the answer
A febrile seizure is complex if it lasts >15 minutes, recurs within 24 hours, or has focal features. A 20-minute seizure with fever (even if the fever appears just afterwards) is a complex febrile seizure; a family history of epilepsy alone does not make it epilepsy.
Q50
Baby with a 20-minute seizure, afebrile during it but febrile (39C) afterwards, family history of epilepsy; diagnosis?
Key clue
>15 min duration = complex
Show answer
Complex febrile seizure
Q75
Child's first seizure lasting 20 minutes, post-ictal drowsiness/incontinence, temp 38.2C; diagnosis?
Key clue
>15 min with fever = complex
Show answer
Complex febrile seizure