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Subject Area

Pediatrics

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study is to investigate the possible role of neuroglobin as a novel biomarker in children with febrile seizures and epileptic children. Background Neuroglobin is a new globin member that is highly expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system. Patients and methods This case–control study has been conducted on 75 children, divided into three groups: group I included children with simple febrile convulsions, group II included children with newly diagnosed idiopathic epilepsy, and group III included healthy children selected as controls. Serum neuroglobin assay, complete blood count, C-reactive protein level, random blood sugar, serum electrolytes, liver-function and kidney-function tests, and electroencephalogram were performed for all children. Results The overall results showed that serum neuroglobin levels were significantly increased in patients' groups than in controls and more in epileptic children than children with febrile seizures (P<0.05 for all). Neuroglobin levels were negatively correlated with the hemoglobin levels and positively correlated with the total leukocytic count in the patients' groups. Conclusion Higher serum neuroglobin levels among children with seizures, especially epileptic ones, reflecting its involvement in seizure process. This study may give the initial clue to newer anticonvulsant or antiepileptic therapy through acting on neuroglobin levels.

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