OBSOLETE: Benign infantile seizures associated with mild gastroenteritis

Benign infantile seizures associated with mild gastroenteritis (also known as convulsions with mild gastroenteritis, CwG, or afebrile seizures associated with rotavirus gastroenteritis) is a condition in which otherwise healthy infants experience seizures during an episode of mild viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu), most commonly caused by rotavirus or norovirus. This Orphanet entry (166305) is marked as OBSOLETE, meaning it has been reclassified or merged into another disease entity in current nosology. The condition was historically recognized as a distinct clinical syndrome primarily affecting the nervous system in the context of a gastrointestinal infection. Clinically, affected infants typically present between 6 months and 3 years of age with brief, generalized seizures — often occurring in clusters — during the course of mild diarrhea and/or vomiting, without significant fever or dehydration. Importantly, the seizures are self-limiting, neurological development remains normal, and the long-term prognosis is excellent. Electroencephalography (EEG) findings are usually normal between seizure episodes. The pathophysiology is not fully understood but is thought to involve a direct or indirect effect of the enteric virus on the immature central nervous system. Treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on managing the gastroenteritis (hydration and electrolyte balance) and acute seizure management with benzodiazepines if needed. Chronic antiepileptic therapy is generally not required, as recurrence outside the context of gastroenteritis is rare. Because this entry is obsolete, clinicians and patients should refer to updated classifications for the most current diagnostic and management guidance.

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