Serum zinc levels in febrile seizures: Is deficiency a risk factor?

Abstract

Objective: Pathogenesis of febrile seizures is still unknown, despite it is the most common type of seizures and one of the leading neurologic disorders of childhood. Trace elements and especially zinc deficiency is suggested to be the trigger factor for convulsions. In the present study, we aim to determine the possible relationship between zinc and febrile seizures. Material and Methods: 60 patients are included as study group, aged between 3 months and 5 years old and with febrile seizures. In first control group, 30 patients with fever but no convulsions aged between 3 months and 5 years old are choosen. In second control group, 30 patients with no health problems are choosen. Serum zinc levels are determined in first 12 hours after admission. Data are evaluated with SPSS 10.0 programme. Results: Mean zinc levels of patients with febrile seizures was found 153.43±47.92 mg/dL, and mean zinc levels of 1. control group and 2. control group was found 108.93±33.91 mg/dL and 121.4±53.29 mg/dL respectively. Mean serum zinc levels of the study group was found statistically higher from both of the control groups. There was no relationship between serum zinc levels and age, gender, weight, temperature level, number and etiology of convulsions and family history. Conclusion: We found no relationship between serum zinc levels and febril seizure, despite the previous studies. Copyright © 2012 by Türkiye Klinikleri.