Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate iron deficiency anemia
as a risk factor for febrile seizures in pediatrics.
Background: Febrile seizures are a form of acute symptomatic
seizures. Being one of the most important pediatric health problems in
developing and developed countries. Also, iron deficiency anemia is a
major health problem in young children.
Methods:This study was conducted on 80 infants and children aged 6
months to 6 years old. They were divided into two groups: group (A) it
included 50 infants and children suffering from febrile seizures with
mean age 23.6±15.84; (6-72) months. Group (B): it included 30 infants
and children suffering from fever without any neurological problems,
with mean age 16.89±13.15; (6-60) months. 25 infants were from rural
areas and 25 infants were from urban areas in group (A); while 18
infants were from rural areas and 12 infants were from urban areas in
group (B). All enrolled children were subjected to: history taking,
clinical examination. Complete blood count was done with measures of
serum iron, serum ferritin levels , total iron binding capacity and
Transferrin saturation.
Results:Iron deficiency anemia was present in 72% of group A (36)
and 50% of group B(15). There was statistical significant difference
between studied groups regarding the presence of iron deficiency
anemia with OR of 2.57 95% CI (0.90-7.34). There was negative
significant correlation between temperature and Serum ferritin in
Group A, positive significant correlation between temperature and
TIBC in Group A and negative significant correlation between
temperature and Transferrin saturation in both Group A and Group B.
Conclusion: Children with iron deficiency anemia were found to be
more susceptible to have febrile convulsions compared to non-anemic
children |
