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Renal function in children with febrile convulsions

Ladan Afsharkhas1, Azita Tavasoli1

  • 11. Pediatric Neurology Department, Ali-Asghar Children's Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.

Iranian Journal of Child Neurology
|February 7, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Febrile convulsions (FC) in children may show mild renal function changes, but electrolyte tests are usually unnecessary unless dehydration is present. Urinary tract infections should be screened in children experiencing febrile convulsions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Clinical Biochemistry

Background:

  • Febrile convulsions (FC) are the most common seizure disorder in children.
  • Previous studies suggest potential serum electrolyte disturbances in children with FC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine serum electrolytes, renal function, and urinary tract infection (UTI) frequency in hospitalized children with FC.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive, cross-sectional study of 291 children with FC admitted between 2008-2013.
  • Data collected included demographics, seizure characteristics, family history, serum electrolytes, renal function tests, and UTI screening.

Main Results:

  • UTI was diagnosed in 4.5% of patients, more common in females and infants under 12 months.
  • Electrolyte abnormalities included hyponatremia (11%), hypocalcemia (5.5%), and hypokalemia (1.4%).
  • Mildly decreased glomerular filtration rate (<60 ml/min/1.73m2) was observed in 8.2% of patients; serum magnesium, BUN, and creatinine levels were normal.

Conclusions:

  • Serum electrolyte evaluation is not routinely necessary for febrile convulsions unless dehydration is suspected.
  • Urinary tract infections should be considered and ruled out in children presenting with febrile convulsions.
Abstract

Keywords:
ElectrolyteFebrile ConvulsionUTI

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