Abstract

Neuroglobin as a Novel Biomarker in Childhood Seizures

Author(s): Samir M Mounir, Abdel Hakeem Abdel Mohsen, Ahmed A Saedii, Mohammed H Hassan

Background

Neuroglobin (Ngb) is a new globin member which is highly expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the possible role of Ngb in children with febrile seizures and epileptic children.

Patients and methods

The current study has been conducted on 70 children, divided into three groups: group (I) included 25 children with simple febrile convulsions, group (II) included 25 children with newly diagnosed idiopathic epilepsy, and group (III) included 20 healthy children selected as controls. Serum Ngb assay, complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein level, fasting blood sugar, serum electrolytes, liver and kidney function tests, and electroencephalogram (EEG), were performed for all children.

Results

The overall results showed that serum Ngb levels were significantly increased in patients’ groups than in controls and more in epileptic children than children with febrile seizures (pÃ�?�?Â�?�? 0.05 for all). Ngb levels were negatively correlated with the hemoglobin levels and positively correlated with the total leucocytic count (TLC) 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.