Publication:

Study of biochemical abnormalities in neonatal seizures with special reference to hyponatremia

Background Biochemical abnormalities are commonly observed in neonates who are admitted in NICU with seizures. In these babies, biochemical abnormalities can be either primary or secondary. Secondary biochemical abnormalities are commonly observed in the presence of other obvious causes of seizures like HIE, meningitis etc. Hyponatremia, hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia are common metabolic disturbances found in neonates with seizures. The present study is intended to evaluate the incidence of various biochemical abnormalities especially hyponatremia.

Methods It is an observational study done in a tertiary care centre, Gandhi hospital, Secunderabad, Telangana, India involving 120 babies admitted with seizures in NICU.

Results Biochemical abnormalities were found in 52 babies with the most common primary abnormality being hypoglycemia mostly encountered in preterm babies and the most common secondary abnormality being hyponatremia seen mostly in term babies. Prompt identification of the biochemical abnormalities in neonatal seizures enables specific intervention by the treating doctor resulting in better neurological outcome.

Conclusions Early detection and prompt management of hyponatremia would help in preventing occurrence of seizures and also help in avoiding over use of anticonvulsants in the management of seizures resulting in favourable neurological outcome with less long term morbidity.