Update study on the risk factors of the first simple febrile seizure in children of Mosul, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Simple febrile seizures are a common condition among children aged 6 months to 5 years. Many studies have been conducted on the risk factors for recurrence, while few studies have investigated the risk factors for the first simple febrile seizure. Our aim was to evaluate the risk factors of the first simple febrile seizure among children in Mosul City, Iraq.

Methods: This case-control study was conducted in a pediatric teaching hospital from January to May 2020 and included 120 patients who were admitted to the hospital with a first attack of simple febrile seizure; 120 age-matched children with febrile illnesses, but without seizures, were considered as controls. The cases and controls were compared to identify risk factors. A questionnaire interview with each parent/guardian, as well as necessary investigations, was performed. Odds ratios and t-tests were used for statistical analyses.

Results: Upper respiratory tract infection was the most common cause of fever in patients and controls. Nearly half of the patients were less than 2 years old. Significant associations were noted between young age, family history, bottle feeding, low hemoglobin levels, low birth weight, cesarean section, prenatal exposure to paternal smoking, and the first episode of simple febrile seizure. 

Conclusion: Young age, artificial formula feeding, low hemoglobin levels, prenatal exposure to cigarette smoking, low birth weight, and cesarean section are likely risk factors for the first simple febrile seizure in Mosul City. To reduce the incidence of first simple febrile seizure, we recommend avoiding these possible risk factors.