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Association between iron deficiency anemia and febrile seizures

Naveed-ur-Rehman1, A G Billoo

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad. rehman_naveed@hotmail.com

Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP
|June 1, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Iron deficiency anemia is more common in children experiencing febrile seizures. This study suggests that iron-deficient children may be more susceptible to febrile seizures, warranting further investigation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Hematology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Febrile seizures are common in childhood.
  • Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent nutritional deficiency.
  • The association between IDA and febrile seizures requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between iron deficiency anemia and febrile convulsions in children.
  • To compare the prevalence of IDA in children with febrile seizures versus those with febrile illness without seizures.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study was conducted involving 60 children at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.
  • Cases were children with febrile seizures, and controls were children with febrile illness without seizures, matched for age and gender.
  • Iron deficiency anemia was assessed using hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, and serum ferritin levels.

Main Results:

  • No significant difference in mean age or gender distribution was observed between cases and controls.
  • Iron deficiency anemia was significantly more frequent in children with febrile seizures compared to controls.
  • Key indicators like hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, and serum ferritin were significantly lower in the febrile seizure group.

Conclusions:

  • Lower plasma ferritin levels in children with febrile seizures suggest a higher susceptibility in iron-deficient children.
  • Findings indicate a potential link between iron deficiency and an increased risk of febrile seizures.
  • Further research is recommended to explore the incidence of subsequent febrile seizures after iron deficiency treatment.
Abstract

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