Familial Mediterranean Fever in Childhood


Ekinci R. M. K., Konte E. K., Akay N., Gul U.

TURKISH ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRICS, vol.59, no.6, pp.527-534, 2024 (ESCI, Scopus, TRDizin) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 59 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2024
  • Doi Number: 10.5152/turkarchpediatr.2024.24188
  • Journal Name: TURKISH ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRICS
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.527-534
  • Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is the most prevalent monogenic autoinflammatory disorder, characterized by recurrent fever and serositis. It primarily affects individuals of Mediterranean descent, including Arabs, Armenians, Turks, and Jews. The Mediterranean fever (MEFV) gene, responsible for FMF, was discovered in 1997. Biallelic pathogenic variants lead to excessive activation of the pyrin inflammasome, resulting in inflammation. Clinical manifestations include recurrent fever, abdominal pain, and joint involvement, with attacks typically lasting 12-72 hours. Diagnosis relies on clinical criteria and is supported by genetic testing. Colchicine is the primary treatment to reduce attack frequency and prevent the complications like renal amyloidosis. Despite advancements in understanding FMF, including its genetic basis and treatment options, challenges remain in distinguishing it from other autoinflammatory diseases. Co-existing condi-tions such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease are common among FMF patients. Ongoing research should aim to clarify the development of the disease, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and address its clinical presentation and genetic variability, with a focus on identifying new genetic mutations and epigenetic factors that contribute to its pathogenesis