Unveiling the Nexus: Is Iron and Sodium Deficiency in Children with Febrile Seizures Risk Factor?

Aim: To examine the connection between the brain and sodium and iron levels in children under age 6. Material and Method: This retrospective cohort study at Karabuk University Faculty of Medicine included 121 patients divided into three groups: Febril seizure (FS) patients, only fever children without FS, and healthy children. Our study distinguishes itself from other research in this field by its distinctive approach. Various laboratory parameters including sodium, Urea, Creatinine, AST, ALT, RDW, RDW Index, Mentzer Index, Hb, MCV, Ferritin and iron were compared among the groups. Statistical analysis used SPSS software and significance tests. Results: Significantly lower sodium levels were observed in FS patients and iron levels were notably lower in children with FS. This findings suggest a potential association between lower sodium and iron levels in children with febrile seizures. Thus contributing to unveiling the nexus of brain. Additionaly, elevated AST levels in FS may signify liver function changes. findings suggest a connection between the liver function and brain function. However, urea and creatinine variations were non-significant. Conclusion: Our findings suggest a potential association between electrolyte levels in children with febrile seizures. Iron plays a crucial role in brain metabolism and is necessary for the activity of certain enzymes involved in neurotransmitter functions. The low levels of sodium and particularly iron in the serum biochemistry of FS patients suggest a connection between these minerals and brain function. Moreover, the observed association between liver function markers and febrile seizures warrants further investigation into the link between liver health and brain function.