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Vasculitis in familial Mediterranean fever
H Ozdogan1, N Arisoy, O Kasapçapur
1Department of Rheumatology, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, University of Istanbul, Turkey.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Vasculitis, including Henoch-Schönlein purpura and polyarteritis nodosa, is a significant feature in Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). Occult blood was detected in nearly half of FMF patients after abdominal attacks.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Rheumatology
Background:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a genetic autoinflammatory disorder.
- Vasculitis is a known complication, but its frequency in FMF is not well-established.
- Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) and polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) are common vasculitic conditions.
Observation:
- This study evaluated 207 Turkish patients with FMF for clinical vasculitis.
- A prospective component assessed occult blood in stool samples post-abdominal attack in 36 FMF patients.
- Controls included healthy individuals and patients with other diseases.
Findings:
- The study identified Henoch-Schönlein purpura in 7% and polyarteritis nodosa in 1% of FMF patients.
- Occult blood in stool was found in 47% of FMF patients after abdominal attacks, a novel finding.
- In some cases, FMF diagnosis followed the onset of vasculitis.
Implications:
- Vasculitis is an important, under-recognized manifestation of FMF.
- Screening for vasculitis and occult blood may be beneficial in FMF patients experiencing abdominal pain.
- Further research is warranted to understand the link between FMF and vasculitis.