Frequency of Iron Deficiency Anemia as a Risk Factor for Febrile Seizures in Children Aged 6 Months to 5 Years
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i1.1736Keywords:
Iron Deficiency Anemia, Febrile Seizures, Pediatric Neurology, Hemoglobin, Mean Corpuscular Volume, Risk Factor Analysis, Case-Control Study.Abstract
Background: Febrile seizures (FS) are the most common seizure type in children, affecting 2-5% of the pediatric population, with potential long-term neurodevelopmental implications. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA), the most prevalent micronutrient deficiency globally, has been hypothesized to lower the seizure threshold due to its impact on neurotransmitter synthesis and brain function.
Objective: To determine the frequency of iron deficiency anemia as a risk factor for febrile seizures in children aged 6 months to 5 years.
Methods: A case-control study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, Balochistan Institute of Child Health Services, Quetta, from November 29, 2021, to May 30, 2022. A total of 200 children were enrolled, with 100 cases (children with febrile seizures) and 100 controls (children with febrile illnesses but no seizures). Demographic and clinical data were collected, and blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hematocrit (HCT), and serum ferritin levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results: The prevalence of IDA was significantly higher in cases (46.5%) compared to controls (28%) (p = 0.003). Mean Hb levels were 9.86 ± 2.28 g/dL in cases and 9.48 ± 1.86 g/dL in controls (p = 0.104). Mean MCV and HCT levels were significantly lower in cases (69.03 ± 10.84 fL and 29.75 ± 5.22%) than controls (72.91 ± 11.63 fL and 32.85 ± 11.86%) (p = 0.016 and p = 0.035). The odds ratio for IDA as a risk factor for febrile seizures was 2.23 (95% CI: 1.30–3.82).
Conclusion: IDA was significantly associated with febrile seizures, emphasizing the need for routine screening and management of iron deficiency in children to reduce seizure risk.
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