Risk Factors of First Episode Simple Febrile Seizures in Children Aged 6 Month to 5 Year: A Case Control Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neurology

Background:

• Febrile seizures are common in young children.
• Identifying risk factors is crucial for prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the risk factors associated with the first episode of simple febrile seizures in children.
• To analyze the independent contribution of various factors including iron deficiency, family history, and environmental exposures.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 214 children with first simple febrile seizures and 214 controls with febrile illness but no seizures.
• Blood tests were used to diagnose iron deficiency.
• Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify independent risk factors.

Main Results:

• Significant risk factors identified include iron deficiency (OR 5.78), family history of febrile seizure or epilepsy (OR 4.31-4.25), day care attendance >1 month (OR 4.81), and prematurity (OR 5.18).
• These factors were statistically significant (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

• Iron deficiency, family history of seizures/epilepsy in relatives, prolonged day care attendance, and premature birth are significant risk factors for first simple febrile seizures.
• These findings can inform targeted interventions and parental guidance.