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[Recurrent pericarditis in familial Mediterranean fever]
Harefuah
|May 15, 1995
Summary
Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) can cause recurrent pericarditis in young people of Mediterranean descent. Early colchicine prophylaxis effectively prevents FMF-related pericarditis attacks.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pediatrics
- Cardiology
Background:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) diagnosis relies on clinical symptoms, lacking a specific test.
- FMF typically presents with fever and serositis (peritoneum, pleura, joints).
- Pericardial inflammation in FMF is often underestimated, with echocardiography revealing a 27% incidence.
Observation:
- Two young patients, an 11-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl, experienced recurrent pericarditis.
- Standard treatments including steroids, NSAIDs, and pericardiocentesis were ineffective.
- Both patients later presented with classic FMF symptoms.
Findings:
- Recurrent pericarditis in these patients resolved after initiating continuous colchicine prophylaxis.
- No further pericarditis or FMF attacks occurred during 18 and 10-month follow-ups.
- This suggests a strong link between FMF and recurrent pericarditis in these cases.
Implications:
- Acute or recurrent pericarditis in children and young adults of Mediterranean origin should prompt consideration of FMF.
- Prompt diagnosis and colchicine treatment can prevent FMF-related pericarditis.
- Highlights the importance of considering FMF in unexplained serositis, including pericarditis.