Benign febrile myoclonus in childhood

Background: Myoclonus is often associated with progressive myoclonic epilepsy or neurodegenerative conditions. Febrile myoclonus is a benign phenomenon, which has only been reported previously in one child. Methods: The clinical features of three children with fever-induced myoclonus are described. Results: Fever-induced myoclonus is characterized by frequent myoclonus, which resolves with resolution of the fever in otherwise healthy children. Conclusions: Recognition of fever-induced myoclonus as a benign phenomenon may prevent unnecessary investigations and interventions.