Fingolimod in Multiple Sclerosis and Familial Mediterranean Fever Coexistence

There is an intriguing relationship between familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) and multiple sclerosis (MS). While FMF is a hereditary autosomal recessive disease characterized by recurrent, acute, self-limited attacks of fever and polyserositis, MS is a chronic, inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, characterized by autoreactive lymphocytes, microglial activation, and chronic neurodegeneration. In patients suffering from both FMF and MS, it would be interesting to test whether treatments for MS affect the course of FMF, or vice versa. However, this interaction has not been studied yet.

Herein is reported a case with FMF and relapsing-remitting MS in whom fingolimod, an immunomodulatory oral MS therapy, led to near-complete resolution of FMF symptoms.

This report demonstrates an interesting clinical observation which may have promise for patients suffering both from MS and FMF. The drug's effect on the course of FMF needs further research.