Vol. 3, Issue 10, Part A (2017)

Abstract
Seizures in newborns are quite conspicuous in its varied clinical presentation and the diagnosis is frequently difficult. Recognition of these seizures early can help in early initiation of treatment for maximum preservation of neurologic function. The study was conducted at a teaching hospital in Odisha from July 2014-June 2016.alll neonates who were admitted with seizure or developed seizure during hospital stay were included in this study and extremely low birth weight babies, babies with multiple congenital anomalies are excluded from the study. Observed seizure patterns were recorded. All neonates were subjected to simple, less expensive, easily available investigations as complete blood count, band cell count, micro ESR, CRP, Immature/total neutrophil ratio, Glucose, Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, CSF study, Cranial USG. Perinatal Asphyxia was found to be the commonest cause of seizure in neonates in our study (60% of cases) followed by sepsis/meningitis (15%) and presents within first 48hrs of life. Most frequent type of seizure pattern observed in our study is subtle variety followed by multifocal clonic type. Seizure on day 1 is most commonly due to perinatal asphyxia, similarly seizures after day 7 were found to be due to Sepsis/Meningitis. Most important determinant of neonatal mortality was due to perinatal asphyxia and sepsis. Only single anticonvulsant Phenobarbitone was used in 74.54% cases, 15% babies require 3 or more anticonvulsants.