General Information About Familial Mediterranean Fever
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a rheumatic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of fever and pain, occurring due to a hereditary (congenital) defect in the genes that control inflammation in the immune system.
It is caused by mutations in the MEFV gene. It is seen much more frequently in Mediterranean basin countries, especially among Turks, Armenians, Arabs, and Jewish populations, compared to other geographies.
It presents with crises of sudden high fever lasting 1 to 3 days, severe abdominal pain raising suspicion of appendicitis, a stinging sensation in the chest, swelling in the joints, and redness in the ankles.
If the disease is not treated and the attacks are not stopped, a protein called 'Amyloid' accumulates in the body. Over time, this protein precipitates in the kidneys, causing chronic kidney failure (Amyloidosis).
It is detected through the patient's clinical history (recurrent attacks), blood inflammation markers (CRP, Fibrinogen) during an attack, and Genetic (DNA) test analysis, which confirms the definitive diagnosis.
There is no treatment that will completely erase the disease from the genes. However, the drug containing the active ingredient 'Colchicine', used regularly every day, prevents attacks and eliminates the risk of kidney damage (amyloidosis).
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
