Iron Deficiency Anemia and Febrile Seizures in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Jadhav Renuka, Pande Vineeta, Garud Balakrushna, Mane Shailaja
Primary Institution: Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth
Hypothesis
Is there a correlation between iron deficiency anemia and the first episode of febrile seizures in children?
Conclusion
Iron deficiency anemia is a correctable risk factor for children with febrile seizures between 6 and 60 months of age.
Supporting Evidence
- 96% of cases and 85% of controls were found to be anaemic.
- 62% of the febrile seizure cases were male.
- The mean serum transferrin value was significantly lower in cases compared to controls (p=0.029).
- The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) was significantly higher in cases than in controls (p<0.001).
- RDW >15% was observed in 92% of cases compared to 57% of controls (p<0.001).
- 48 out of 50 cases were anaemic (Hb < 11 g/dL), indicating a strong association with febrile seizures.
Takeaway
Kids who have low iron levels might have a higher chance of having seizures when they have a fever, but we can help them by fixing their iron levels.
Methodology
This case-control study enrolled children aged 6 to 60 months, comparing those with their first episode of febrile seizures to those with febrile illness without seizures.
Limitations
The small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study included 150 children, with 50 cases of febrile seizures and 100 controls, predominantly male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.029
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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