Risk Factors and Clinical Profile of First Febrile Seizures among Children in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh

Open Access

Abstract

Introduction: Febrile seizures (FS) are the most common convulsive events in early childhood, often associated with fever and certain predisposing factors. Understanding the demographic profile, clinical characteristics, and risk factors is crucial for early identification and management. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical profile, risk factors, and etiological patterns of first febrile seizures among children admitted to a tertiary care pediatric hospital in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: This hospital-based, cross-sectional observational study enrolled 100 children aged 6 months to 5 years presenting with their first febrile seizure. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected using a structured proforma. Risk factors including family history, birth history, immunization status, and iron deficiency anemia were assessed. Etiology of fever was determined through clinical and laboratory evaluation. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26; multivariable logistic regression identified independent risk factors, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Result: The mean age of participants was 19.8 ± 8.6 months; 63% were male. Simple seizures occurred in 65%, predominantly generalized (92%), and lasted <5 minutes in 60% of cases. The most common cause of fever was upper respiratory tract infection (45%), followed by acute gastroenteritis (25%). Significant independent risk factors for first FS included family history of febrile seizures (AOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2–5.4, p=0.03), temperature ≥39°C (AOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4–6.1, p=0.015), iron deficiency anemia (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1–4.9, p=0.037), and age <18 months (AOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–6.0, p=0.018). Conclusion: First febrile seizures in Bangladeshi children are most frequently simple and generalized, with URTI as the leading fever etiology. Key risk factors include high fever, iron deficiency anemia, early age, and family history, underscoring the need for targeted preventive strategies and early parental counseling.