Epidemiology of seizures in term infants

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Newborn infants presenting with seizures are infrequent, but a major concern because of their long-term outcomes. In this issue of The Journal, Glass et al provide precise estimates for seizure occurrence after term birth using a California data set of over 2 million births. The incidence of seizures was about 1 per 1000 live births. The risks of newborn seizures were increased for maternal age over 40, maternal diabetes, deliveries at ≥42 weeks, catastrophic deliveries, and maternal infection. This information should help alert pediatricians to infants who are at increased risk of seizures following term birth.