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Convulsions in shigellosis. Evaluation of possible risk factors
Insights
Shigellosis convulsions in children are most common in those aged 6 months to 4 years. Peak body temperature and family history of seizures are also key risk factors for febrile seizures during shigellosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Shigellosis is a common bacterial infection in children.
- Convulsions are a potential complication of shigellosis, particularly febrile seizures.
- Understanding risk factors for seizures in shigellosis is crucial for clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify risk factors associated with convulsions in children diagnosed with shigellosis.
- To determine the incidence of convulsions in pediatric shigellosis cases.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study comparing historical, clinical, and laboratory data.
- Analysis of 158 children with culture-proven shigellosis.
- Statistical comparison between children with and without convulsions.
Main Results:
- 37 out of 158 children (23.4%) experienced convulsions.
- Age was the most significant predisposing factor, with the highest incidence in children aged 6 months to 4 years.
- Elevated body temperature and a family history of convulsions were independently associated with seizures.
Conclusions:
- Young age (6 months - 4 years), high fever, and a family history of convulsions are significant risk factors for seizures in pediatric shigellosis.
- These findings aid in identifying high-risk children and guiding clinical vigilance.
- Further research may explore the role of specific Shigella strains and sex in seizure development.
Abstract:
We studied 158 children with culture-proven shigellosis, 37 (23.4%) of whom had convulsions. Historical, clinical, and laboratory data were compared between patients with and without convulsions to define risk factors for the development of seizures. Age was the most important predisposing factor. The highest incidence of shigellosis associated with convulsions was found in children between 6 months and 4 years of age. Peak body temperature and a family history of convulsions also independently affected the development of seizures. Sex and Shigella strain showed differences between the groups but failed to reach statistical significance.