Question

The newborn experienced seizures on the second day of birth. How should we deal with it?

Answer

If a newborn exhibits seizure symptoms on the second day after birth, immediate medical attention and professional evaluation are crucial. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed bleeding in the cerebral cortex and an unclosed foramen ovale, necessitating further diagnosis and treatment. The foramen ovale typically closes within the first year of birth, but if it remains open beyond three years, it is considered an unclosed foramen ovale. This condition is quite common in adults, with approximately one in four people potentially affected by it. Previously, it was believed that an unclosed foramen ovale did not affect cardiac hemodynamics. However, recent research suggests that an unclosed foramen ovale may be associated with cryptogenic stroke. Therefore, for the treatment of neonatal seizures, it is essential to combine professional medical advice, appropriate treatment, and monitoring to prevent possible sequelae.