Symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) may include fever, rashes, pain, swelling, and fatigue. Although the disorder is rare, the symptoms can be debilitating. There are no known cures for FMF, but treatment can help alleviate the symptoms and allow patients to live a normal, healthy life.
FMF is caused by a genetic mutation in the MEFV gene, which is passed down from parents to children. This mutation causes the body to produce abnormal proteins, resulting in inflammation. These abnormal proteins can build up in various parts of the body, including the kidneys, kidney filtering systems, and other organs. When these deposits interfere with kidney function, kidney failure can occur.
FMF is more commonly found in people of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern descent, but it can also affect people from Armenia, Greece, Turkey, and Italian ancestry. People of African or North African descent are also at risk for developing FMF. However, FMF is much less common in other populations. It is especially common in people of Arab and Mediterranean ancestry.
People with FMF can develop amyloidosis, a form of kidney inflammation that can lead to kidney failure. In addition, people can develop nephrotic syndrome, which is a condition that causes the body to produce too much protein, resulting in blood clots in the kidneys. It can also be associated with other autoimmune diseases.
FMF is characterized by recurring fevers, severe abdominal pain, and rashes. It usually affects children under 5 years of age. Symptoms can also occur in adults. Fever is the main symptom. Affected children can experience sudden, severe abdominal pain that can be difficult to tolerate. They may also experience pain in the chest or joints. In addition, they may have unexplained fevers.
FMF is not a life-threatening condition, but it can cause severe pain, fatigue, and short-term disability. Symptoms can be treated, and there are several medications available to help control inflammation. It is important to discuss any symptoms with your doctor, as treatment can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent them from occurring.
FMF can be caused by a variety of different genetic conditions. It is often difficult to diagnose FMF, but tests for genetic conditions are available. For instance, a complete metabolic panel, urinalysis, and ESR are often helpful. Also, a CBC with differential is sometimes helpful. In addition, an erysipeloid rash on the ankle is a key diagnostic indicator of FMF.
In some cases, women who are pregnant will experience attacks of FMF while they are pregnant. If these attacks occur, pregnancy can be risky, as they can endanger the unborn child. Women who experience FMF during pregnancy may experience miscarriage or a stillbirth.
Symptoms of FMF may occur in different individuals, so it is important to discuss any symptoms with your doctor. FMF is not usually associated with learning problems, but it can be associated with other conditions. Symptoms vary between individuals with FMF, and can vary from episode to episode.
FMF is most common in people of Arab, Greek, and Mediterranean ancestry. However, it can occur in any ethnic group.
