FIRES
Pronunciation: FY-ers
Also written as: FIRES — febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome
Febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome, a devastating condition where previously healthy children develop refractory status epilepticus following fever.
Full Definition
FIRES (febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome) is a rare but catastrophic epileptic encephalopathy that affects previously healthy children and adults. The condition is characterized by new-onset refractory status epilepticus occurring within two weeks of a febrile illness, though no infectious agent is typically identified in the brain. Patients experience prolonged seizures that are extremely difficult to control with standard antiepileptic medications, often requiring multiple drugs and non-pharmacological interventions. The prognosis is generally poor, with significant cognitive and neurological impairments in survivors.
Usage
Usage note: Always use all capitals when abbreviated. Distinguish from simple febrile seizures and infectious encephalitis.
In Context
- "The patient met criteria for FIRES following five days of refractory status epilepticus after a viral prodrome." — Case report
- "FIRES represents one of the most challenging epileptic emergencies in pediatric neurology." — Medical textbook