Metabolic profile of oxidative stress and trace elements in febrile seizures among children

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neurology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Febrile seizures (FS) are common in young children.
• Oxidative stress and trace mineral imbalances are implicated in seizure pathogenesis.
• Understanding these biochemical changes is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare serum oxidative stress markers and trace minerals in children with FS versus controls.
• To investigate the relationship between EEG findings and these markers in complex FS.
• To evaluate the impact of antioxidant therapy on clinical outcomes in complex FS.

Main Methods:

• Serum levels of nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) were measured.
• Colorimetric assays were used for biochemical analysis.
• Patients included 80 children with FS (simple and complex) and 40 controls.

Main Results:

• Children with FS showed elevated NO, MDA, and Cu, with decreased SOD, Zn, and Se compared to controls.
• Complex FS with abnormal EEG had higher NO and MDA than those with normal EEG.
• Valproate therapy significantly reduced NO and MDA levels in complex FS patients.

Conclusions:

• Oxidative stress, altered copper, zinc, and selenium levels may contribute to FS.
• Valproate therapy demonstrates potential in mitigating oxidative stress in complex FS.
• Further research into the role of trace minerals and oxidative stress in FS is warranted.