Which are the symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever?

Symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a hereditary autoinflammatory disorder that primarily affects individuals of Mediterranean descent. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation in various parts of the body. The symptoms of FMF can vary in severity and duration, and they typically begin during childhood or adolescence. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing the condition and preventing complications.

Recurrent Fever

One of the hallmark symptoms of FMF is recurrent episodes of fever. These febrile episodes typically last for 1 to 3 days and can occur spontaneously or be triggered by various factors such as stress, physical exertion, or infections. The fever is usually high-grade (above 38°C or 100.4°F) and may be accompanied by chills and sweating.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is another common symptom of FMF. The pain is typically localized to the lower abdomen and can be severe. It is often described as a colicky or cramp-like pain and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The abdominal pain usually resolves spontaneously within 1 to 3 days but can recur during subsequent episodes.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a frequent symptom in individuals with FMF. The pain is usually sharp and may be felt on both sides of the chest or in the lower chest region. It can be mistaken for a heart attack or other cardiac conditions, leading to unnecessary medical interventions. The chest pain typically lasts for a few hours to a few days and may be associated with difficulty breathing or a sensation of tightness in the chest.

Joint Inflammation

Joint inflammation, known as arthritis, is a common manifestation of FMF. The joints most commonly affected are the knees, ankles, and wrists. The inflammation causes pain, swelling, and redness in the affected joints. The joint symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within a few days but can recur during subsequent episodes.

Skin Manifestations

FMF can also present with various skin manifestations. The most characteristic skin symptom is erysipelas-like erythema, which is a red, warm, and tender rash that typically affects the lower legs. Other skin findings may include a purplish rash on the lower extremities, swelling of the hands and feet, and skin lesions resembling hives or nodules.

Other Symptoms

In addition to the primary symptoms mentioned above, individuals with FMF may experience other associated symptoms, including fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms are generally transient and resolve between episodes.

Complications

Without proper management, FMF can lead to various complications. The most serious complication is amyloidosis, a condition in which abnormal protein deposits (amyloid) accumulate in organs such as the kidneys, leading to organ damage and dysfunction. Amyloidosis can cause kidney failure, which may require dialysis or transplantation. Other potential complications include infertility, inflammation of the lining around the heart (pericarditis), and inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

If you or someone you know experiences recurrent episodes of fever, abdominal pain, chest pain, joint inflammation, or other symptoms suggestive of FMF, it is important to seek medical attention for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve the quality of life for individuals with FMF.