AN INHERITED INFLAMMATORY DISORDER
Familial Mediterranean Fever
An inherited inflammatory disorder causing recurrent episodes of fever, abdominal pain, chest pain and joint inflammation. Effectively managed with specific long-term medical therapy.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Familial Mediterranean Fever
Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is an inherited inflammatory disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation, typically affecting the lining of the abdomen, chest and joints. It is most common in people of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern origin (Sephardic Jews, Armenians, Arabs, Turks) but can occur in other populations. It usually begins in childhood or young adulthood. Typical features include episodes lasting 1 to 3 days of high fever, severe abdominal pain mimicking surgical conditions, chest pain due to pleural inflammation, joint pain and swelling (particularly knees and ankles), and skin rash. Between attacks, patients are usually completely well. Untreated FMF can lead to amyloidosis — deposition of abnormal protein in organs, particularly the kidneys, causing chronic kidney disease. Diagnosis is based on clinical features, ethnic background, family history and genetic testing. Specific long-term medical therapy effectively prevents attacks in most patients and significantly reduces the risk of amyloidosis. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and co-management with rheumatology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Inherited gene mutations affecting inflammation control (MEFV gene)
- Autosomal recessive — usually requires inheritance from both parents
- More common in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern populations
- Strong family history common
- Triggers may include stress, infection, menstruation
- Onset usually in childhood or young adulthood
- Genetic counselling important for families
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical features, ethnic background, family history and genetic testing for MEFV mutations
Attacks lasting 1 to 3 days with complete wellness between
Specific long-term medical therapy effectively prevents attacks
Major long-term complication — preventable with regular therapy
Rheumatology co-management essential
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with rheumatology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Specific Long-Term Therapy Prevents Attacks & Amyloidosis
The most effective approach is daily specific long-term medical therapy that prevents acute attacks in most patients and significantly reduces the risk of amyloidosis — the most serious long-term complication. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, family history and ethnicity, examines the patient and arranges blood tests and genetic testing.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with rheumatology, including long-term preventive medical therapy.
- 3
Medical Management
Daily specific medical therapy to prevent attacks, treatment of acute attacks, regular monitoring of kidney function and management of complications.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with rheumatology including monitoring of attacks, kidney function and treatment adherence.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Daily Specific Preventive Medical Therapy (Referral for rheumatology)
Daily specific medical therapy effectively prevents acute attacks in most patients and significantly reduces the risk of amyloidosis.
Treatment of Acute Attacks
Acute attacks are managed with supportive care, hydration, anti-inflammatory therapy and treatment of any complications.
Biological Therapy in Selected Cases
Biological therapy is used in patients who do not respond to or cannot tolerate first-line therapy.
Regular Monitoring of Kidney Function
Regular urine and blood tests detect early signs of amyloidosis affecting the kidneys, allowing prompt treatment intensification.
Genetic Counselling and Family Screening
Family screening identifies affected family members and informs reproductive decisions in affected families.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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