
What is Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)?
It is an inherited genetic disorder characterized by recurrent, acute attacks of intense pain, lasting 2 to 3 days, usually in the abdomen, chest, or joints. FMF is often accompanied by fever and, in some cases, a rash. It is most prevalent in people of Armenian, Arab, and Turkish descent. The underlying cause of the disorder is a defective MEFV gene, which produces proteins involved in reducing inflammation. However, the factors that trigger the episodes are still being researched.
What Are the Symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever?
- Recurrent bouts of fever, usually with severe abdominal pain
- Arthritis (painful, swollen joints)
- Chest pain from inflammation of the lung cavity
- Skin rashes
- Some individuals develop a potentially harmful buildup of protein in vital organs such as the kidneys (known as amyloidosis)
How is FMF diagnosed?
Recent developments in genetic testing have allowed us to detect the FMF gene mutation by molecular testing (PCR) of a blood sample.
The following tests may also be indicative:
- Elevated white blood cell count in CBC
- Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
- Elevated serum haptoglobin
- Elevated C-reactive protein
- Elevated plasma fibrinogen