Neuroimaging in neonatal seizures

Seizures are the most common sign of neurological dysfunction in full-term neonates, with an incidence estimated at 0.15-3.5/1,000 live births. Neonatal seizures often reflect severe underlying brain injury and are associated with high rates of mortality and morbidity. Prognosis is primarily determined by the nature, site and extent of the underlying aetiology, making accurate diagnosis and identification of associated brain lesions essential. Data on neuroimaging in newborns presenting with seizures is limited and most studies report on MRI findings in infants with a specific underlying problem, such as hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy, stroke or metabolic disorders. The aim of this review is to discuss the spectrum of neuroimaging findings in full-term newborns presenting with seizures, divided into subgroups with different underlying aetiologies. A standard neonatal MRI protocol is presented.