Proinflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins and zinc in febrile convulsions

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Abstract
Background : Some changes in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins and zinc (Zn) in peripheral blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) have been suggested to occur for the pathogenesis of febrile convulsions (FC). Methods : In order to test this hypothesis, the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β and prostaglandins (PGE2, PGF2α, PGD2) in the CSF and plasma and the levels of Zn in serum and CSF were investigated in children during the acute and late phases of FC. Results were compared with control subjects with meningismus. Results : During the acute phase of FC, children had significantly elevated plasma levels of IL‐1β, CSF levels of TNF‐α, plasma levels of PGE2, PGF2α and PGD2 and CSF levels of PGD2 (PP0.05). Conclusions : During the acute phase of FC, patients had significantly increased plasma IL‐1β and prostaglandin levels and decreased serum Zn levels. These changes may be responsible for FC pathogenesis.