OBJECTIVETo investigate the pathogenesis, clinical characteristics and treatment of benign infantile convulsions with mild gastroenteritis (BICG).

METHODSThe clinical manifestations and laboratory findings were observed in 40 children with BICG. The antigen and antibodies of rotavirus and calicivirus in stool and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) were tested by the golden standard method and ELISA. The neurological outcome was evaluated by a follow-up of six months or more.

RESULTSAll of the 40 children had mild gastroenteritis with or without minor dehydration. Cluster convulsions were observed in these children. There were normal findings in blood biochemistry (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Cl-, HCO3-, glucose) and cerebral CT or MRI examinations. The interictal EEG showed sprinkle central or frontal epileptiform discharges in 8 children; clear central and parietal epileptiform discharges in 1 child; and no abnormal findings were observed in the other 31 children. Positive rotavirus antigen was detected in 11 children and positive calicivirus antigen in stool samples in 4 children. Positive antibodies of rotavirus and calicivirus in CSF were not seen. Seizures recurred in 22 of 28 children who received prophylactic injections of phenobarbital(5-10 mg/kg). In a 6 months follow-up, one child developed epilepsy and the other 39 children had no seizures and neurological sequelae.

CONCLUSIONSThe digestive system manifestations are mild in children with BICG. Convulsions are always clustered in these children. The mechanism underlying convulsions is not clear. Conventional dose of phenobarbital is not effective for prevention of seizures. Most of children with BICG have a good prognosis.