This syndrome is due to pathogenic SCN1A variants, which are identified in >80% cases, most are de novo variants, but 5-10% are inherited (autosomal dominant or from a mosaic parent). Carrier relatives can be unaffected or have a milder epilepsy syndrome e.g. genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus spectrum. Germline and somatic mosaicism have been reported.
SCN1A is the main cause, other genes rarely associated with this syndrome include GABRG2, GABRA1, and STXBP1.
A family history of epilepsy and/or febrile seizures is present in 30-50% of patients. In some children with Dravet syndrome, the family history is consistent with genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus spectrum.