Evaluation of Serum Sodium in Patients with Febrile Convulsion Admitted to Rapareen Pediatric Hospital

Abstract

Background: Febrile seizures are a frequent neurological emergency in children, with hyponatremia often suspected as a contributing factor. However, its influence on seizure type and recurrence is still uncertain. Aim: The primary objective aim of this research is to examine the serum sodium levels in children experiencing febrile seizures, with a specific focus on comparing those with simple and complex febrile convulsions. Additionally, the study seeks to investigate the association between hyponatremia and the recurrence of febrile seizures within 24 hours. Methodology: This study, designed as a retrospective cross-sectional analysis, took place at Rapareen Teaching Hospital for Children in Erbil City and included 150 pediatric patients aged 6-60 months with febrile seizures. Data on demographics, seizure characteristics, family and medical history, fever etiology, and biochemical parameters (serum sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium) were collected. Logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of seizure type and recurrence. Results: Hyponatremia was observed in 60% of participants but showed no significant association with febrile seizure type or recurrence (P > 0.05). Complex febrile seizures were more frequent among rural residents and were associated with higher body temperature, longer seizure duration, and shorter fever-to-seizure intervals (P < 0.001). Seizure recurrence was linked to older age, complex seizure type, shorter fever-to-seizure intervals, and a positive family history of febrile convulsions (P < 0.05). Logistic regression identified rural residence, seizure duration, and fever-to-seizure interval as significant predictors of complex febrile seizures, while recurrence was associated with age, seizure duration, and family history. Conclusion: The findings emphasize that febrile seizure recurrence and type are influenced by multifactorial clinical and demographic parameters rather than serum sodium levels alone. Comprehensive patient evaluations considering family history, seizure characteristics, and environmental factors are critical for management. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, multicenter comparisons, and the inclusion of additional clinical and nutritional variables to further clarify these associations.