Investigation of the effects of magnetic field exposure on febrile seizure latency, seizure duration, and electroencephalographic recordings in a rat febrile convulsion model.

AIM

To investigate the effects of a magnetic field (MF) on febrile seizure latency, seizure duration, and electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings in a rat febrile convulsion model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six rats were randomly allocated into 1 of 6 groups: sham group (S), febrile convulsion (FC) group without MF exposure, MF group without FC, group exposed to MF before FC (MF + FC), group exposed to MF after FC (FC + MF), and group exposed to MF before and after FC (MF + FC + MF). The rectal temperature after febrile seizure induction, seizure latency, seizure duration, and EEG recordings were recorded for all animals.

RESULTS

Repeated hyperthermic exposure decreased the seizure latency and duration. The effect of the MF was more prominent on seizure duration than on latencies. MF exposure for 10 or 12 days increased seizure latency. MF exposure increased the pathologic theta and delta waves and decreased the beta waves, which are frequently seen in awake animals.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that MF exposure has a negative effect on brain waves, and this effect becomes more evident with prolonged exposure. On the other hand, MF exposure significantly decreased the convulsion durations.