Publication:

Iron deficiency anemia as a risk factor for simple febrile seizures in pediatric patients

Background Febrile seizure (FS) is the most common cause of seizure in children, occurring between 6-60 months. It coincides with peak age of incidence for Iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Iron is required for optimal growth and development and its deficiency is associated with numerous problems including persistent cognitive and motor delays. The objective was to study the role of IDA as a risk factor for simple febrile seizure and its recurrenceMethods: A case control study was conducted among 90 febrile children - 45 cases with simple febrile seizure and 45 cases with febrile illness, between the age group of six months to five years of age at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Pondicherry, between September 2013 and June 2015. The hematological parameters like Hemoglobin, Serum ferritin and RDW were compared between the two groups with respect to fever and different temperature intervals, recurrence of FS.

Results Hb and Serum Ferritin levels were found to be significantly associated with simple febrile seizure, with p value of <0.002 and 0.001 respectively. Similar association was found at different temperature intervals. However, there was no association of hematological parameters with FS recurrence.

Conclusions IDA is a significant risk factor for FS in children while same may not have any effect on the recurrence of FS.