Effect of Iron Therapy in Preventing Recurrent Febrile Seizures

Febrile seizures are the most common convulsive disorder of childhood. The exact cause of febrile seizures is not known. In many cases, a seizure might not be predicted or prevented. Epidemiological studies have made substantial contributions to our understanding of the frequency, natural history, and prognosis of febrile seizures.

Iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide and is a preventable and treatable condition. There is considerable evidence that iron is essential for neurological functioning. Iron is needed for brain function, metabolism of neurotransmitters, and for myelination. Thus, iron deficiency may alter the seizure threshold of a child. Iron deficiency is postulated as a risk factor for febrile seizures in children. If iron deficiency anemia is a risk factor for febrile seizure, then correction of anemia with iron therapy should decrease the recurrence of febrile seizure. Hence the study was done to determine the effect of iron therapy on the recurrence of febrile seizures.