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Recurrent pericarditis as the initial manifestation of Familial Mediterranean fever

Kerem Okutur1, Selcuk Seber, Erkan Oztekin

  • 1Sisli Etfal Research and Training Hospital Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey. keremokutur007@yahoo.com

Medical Science Monitor : International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research
|December 2, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) can cause rare cases of recurrent pericarditis. Early diagnosis through MEFV gene mutation analysis and colchicine treatment are key for effective management.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Genetics
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autosomal recessive autoinflammatory disorder.
  • Characterized by recurrent febrile serositis attacks, primarily affecting the peritoneum, pleura, and synovium.
  • Pericardial involvement is an uncommon manifestation of FMF.

Observation:

  • A case report of a 25-year-old Turkish woman with recurrent pericarditis of unknown etiology.
  • The patient's pericarditis was refractory to conventional treatments like NSAIDs and corticosteroids.
  • The patient experienced a positive response to colchicine therapy.

Findings:

  • Genetic analysis identified mutations in the MEFV gene, confirming the diagnosis of FMF.
  • The patient's recurrent pericarditis was attributed to FMF.

Implications:

  • FMF should be considered in the differential diagnosis of idiopathic recurrent pericarditis, especially in individuals unresponsive to standard treatments.
  • MEFV gene mutation analysis is crucial for diagnosing FMF in such cases.
  • Colchicine therapy can be effective for managing FMF-related pericarditis.

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