Fetal seizure: A video recording and possible etiology

J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2019 Aug;45(8):1619-1625. doi: 10.1111/jog.14016. Epub 2019 Jun 7.

Abstract

Fetal seizure is rarely observed. Investigation of both video-recording of seizures and cardiotocography is crucial for a precise diagnosis. Here, we report a case of fetal seizure, and also show a video-ultrasound recording. A 40-year-old woman was admitted to us due to loss of variability in cardiotocography. Ultrasound repeatedly revealed opisthotonus-like and clonic-seizure-like movements. After the abnormal movement, tachycardia up to 210 bpm (postictal tachycardia) was noted. Ultrasound revealed a nuchal cord. A careful investigation of video-ultrasound recording by an epilepsy specialist led to the confirmation of epileptic seizures. At 364/7 , she vaginally gave birth to an infant with an umbilical artery pH of 7.22. The infant died 30 min after birth. No clear video-recordings associated with fetal seizure were available for cases reported so far in the literature. The video provided in this case may be of use for further analyses.

Keywords: cardiotocography; cerebral palsy; fetal seizure; loss of variability; umbilical cord.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Electrocardiography
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Perinatal Death
  • Pregnancy
  • Seizures / diagnosis*
  • Seizures / diagnostic imaging
  • Tachycardia / diagnosis*
  • Tachycardia / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal
  • Uterine Monitoring