Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Aim: Iron deficiency anemia as a risk factor for the first episode of febrile seizure. Material and Methods: Cases (n=100) were patients with typical febrile convulsions between 1 year to 5years (AAP clinical practice guidelines). A control group (n=100) was selected from age and sex matched children admitted with febrile illness but without a seizure. Results: 86% (n=86) children had Hb <11 gm/dl from the case group as compared to 25%(n=25) in control group with significant p-value (p <0.01). The proportion of cases with anemia was significantly higher as compared to that of controls (p=0.015). mean hemoglobin level and MCV in cases were significantly lower as compared to that in controls (p <0.03). RDW value is significantly higher in cases as compared to control (p <0.03). No significant difference between the two groups was observed with respect to mean MCH levels (p>0.03). serum ferritin and serum iron levels in cases were significantly lower as compared to that in controls (p <0.01). TIBC value is significantly higher in cases as compared to control (p <0.01). Conclusion: The findings suggest that a considerable percentage of children having febrile seizures suffer from iron-deficiency anemia and low serum iron. This means the low serum iron and the presence of anemia can serve as a reinforcing factor for febrile seizures in children.