Familial Mediterranean Fever, which usually begins in childhood or young adulthood, usually continues without symptoms between attacks. However, it is possible to prevent or alleviate attacks with diagnosis and treatment. Individuals with FMF disease should have a genetic test and be followed regularly by a rheumatologist or specialist physician. Attacks caused by FMF are not limited to just physical effects. Attacks can also have an impact on patients’ mental health.
What is Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease?
“What does Familial Mediterranean Fever or FMF disease mean?” We can give the following answer to the question:
Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a genetic disease characterized by recurrent fever, abdominal pain, joint pain and chest pain. FMF disease is generally more common in people living in the Mediterranean region. In short, Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease is an autoinflammatory disease that has a genetic basis, progresses with attacks, and can affect the quality of life.
What causes Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease?
Familial Mediterranean Fever or FMF disease is a condition caused by mutation in the MEFV gene. This mutation disrupts the production of a protein that causes inflammation in the body. It is important for people living with FMF to reduce their risk of complications by following their doctor’s instructions and getting regular check-ups. Serious complications of FMF include:
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart
- Pneumonia: inflammation of the lungs
- Appendicitis: inflammation of the appendix
- kidney disease
- blood clots
What are the symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease?
Symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease usually begin in childhood and may continue throughout life. Attacks usually last a few days and go away on their own. However, in some cases, attacks can last for several weeks or months. Symptoms of the disease appear during the attack. Symptoms of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease are as follows:
- One of the most obvious symptoms is severe abdominal pain. These pains are usually localized in the lower abdomen and begin during the attack.
- Fever is another symptom of FMF attacks. Fever may be high during attacks and occurs along with other symptoms.
- Joint pain and swelling may occur during FMF attacks. This condition usually affects the knees and ankles.
- Chest pain may also occur during FMF attacks. This condition may be caused by inflammation of the pericardium.
- Headaches may also be common during FMF attacks.
- During attacks, patients often experience extreme fatigue and weakness.
FMF symptoms appear during attacks and there are usually no obvious symptoms between attacks. The frequency and severity of attacks may vary from person to person. In some people, attacks may be rare, while in others they may be more frequent and severe.
How is Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease treated?
Treatment of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) disease generally aims to relieve symptoms of the disease, prevent attacks and improve the patient’s quality of life. Treatment of Familial Mediterranean Fever is usually lifelong and may require a multidisciplinary approach. The basic elements of Familial Mediterranean Fever treatment are as follows:
- Medicine prescribed by a doctor is commonly used to reduce attacks and control inflammation caused by the disease.
- Prescribed medications can be used to control the fever and pain that occur during the attack.
- FMF can cause a complication called amyloidosis. Therefore, patients should be followed at regular intervals to monitor the development of amyloidosis.
FMF is a genetic disease, and therefore it is important for patients and family members to receive genetic counseling. This counseling can be used to understand the genetic transmission of the disease and provide information about family planning and genetic testing. FMF treatment requires constant monitoring. Patients should see their doctor regularly. Patients should work with their doctors on their treatment.
