Differential Diagnosis for a 10-year-old with a Seizure
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Febrile Seizure: This is the most common cause of seizures in children, especially in the 6 months to 5 years age range, but can occur up to 10 years. It's often triggered by a fever, usually above 38°C (100.4°F), and is typically generalized and short-lived.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. It's a common cause of seizures in children and can be due to various underlying causes, including genetic predisposition, brain injury, or infections.
- Infection (Meningitis/Encephalitis): Infections of the brain or meninges can cause seizures, especially if they lead to inflammation or increased intracranial pressure.
- Head Trauma: Traumatic brain injuries can cause seizures, either immediately after the injury or as a late complication.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Intracranial Hemorrhage: Bleeding within the brain can cause seizures and is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
- Brain Tumor: Although rare, brain tumors can cause seizures, especially if they are located in areas that affect seizure regulation.
- Hyponatremia: Severe hyponatremia (low sodium levels) can cause seizures and is potentially life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Toxic Ingestion: Ingestion of certain toxins or drugs can cause seizures and is critical to identify and treat promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Autoimmune Encephalitis: A rare condition where the immune system attacks the brain, leading to inflammation and potentially causing seizures.
- Mitochondrial Disorders: Rare genetic disorders affecting the mitochondria, which can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms, including seizures.
- Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC): A rare genetic disorder that can cause seizures, along with other systemic manifestations like skin lesions and renal angiomyolipomas.
- Rasmussen's Encephalitis: A rare, chronic inflammatory neurological disease, usually affecting one half of the brain, leading to seizures, hemiparesis, and eventual brain atrophy.