Causes and risk factors
Familial Mediterranean fever is caused due to genetic mutations in MEFV. Regulation of inflammatory process is hampered in the disease. The first attack of fever occurs in childhood or adolescent age. The disease is commonly seen in people of Mediterranean descent.
Clinical presentation
Mediterranean fever is marked by recurrent polyserositis that involves abdomen, chest, and joints. It presents with signs and symptoms of peritonitis, pleurisy, and arthritis. Symptoms include repeated episodes of fever, abdominal pain, chest pain, aching, swelling in joints, and muscle aches. There is constipation followed by diarrhea. A red rash on legs, especially below the knees is observed. A swelling and tenderness can be seen on other parts such as in scrotum in males. Heart involvement such as pericarditis is observed. It may also affect membranes around brain and spinal cord. If left untreated, there is deposition of amyloid protein in the tissues and organs, especially kidneys, leading to complications like kidney failure.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Blood test is recommended. Genetic testing is advised.
Treatment
There is no particular cure for familial Mediterranean fever. Symptomatic treatment including administration of antipyretic, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and analgesics to relieve pain are given.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating Mediterranean fever.
Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating Mediterranean fever.
Facts and figures
The disease affects 1 in 200 to 1000 people in the Mediterranean region.
