The Impact of Nutritional Deficiencies in Serum Iron, Serum Zinc, and Vitamin D on the Incidence of Febrile Seizures in Children with Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Case-Control Study in Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai

Dr. Akshay R. Singh, Dr. Janvi Kataria

Abstract: Aim: To investigate the association between deficiencies in serum iron, zinc, and vitamin D and the occurrence of febrile seizures in children hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in Mumbai. Methods: This case-control study included 100 pediatric patients (cases) aged 6 months to 5 years diagnosed with febrile seizures and CAP, compared to 100 age- and sex-matched healthy children (controls). Serum levels of iron, zinc, and vitamin D were measured and analyzed. Demographic, clinical, and nutritional data were collected and compared between the two groups. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were performed to determine the correlation between micronutrient deficiencies and the risk of febrile seizures. Results: Micronutrient deficiencies, specifically in serum iron, zinc, and vitamin D, are significantly associated with an increased risk of febrile seizures in children with CAP. These findings underscore the importance of addressing nutritional deficiencies as part of comprehensive pediatric health management strategies.

Keywords: Febrile seizures, Community-acquired pneumonia, Serum iron deficiency, Serum zinc levels, Vitamin D deficiency, Nutritional deficiencies in children, Pediatrics and Child Care