Autoinflammatory diseases occur when the immune system flares up on its own, without any infection, causing recurrent attacks of fever and inflammation. The most important representative of this group in our country is Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF); Türkiye is one of the countries where FMF is most common in the world, and it is frequent in the region that includes Gaziantep.

Symptoms of FMF

Occurring in attacks that come and go on their own:

  • Fever (attacks usually lasting 1–3 days)
  • Severe abdominal pain (often mistaken for appendicitis)
  • Chest pain (due to inflammation of the membrane lining)
  • Swelling and pain in a single joint (especially the ankle or knee)
  • A rose-colored (erysipelas-like) rash around the ankle

Between attacks, the child is completely healthy. A similar family history and consanguineous marriage strengthen the picture.

Why Does It Matter? Diagnosis and Treatment

Untreated FMF can, in the long term, lead to permanent kidney damage called amyloidosis; this is why early diagnosis is critical. Diagnosis is made through typical attacks, family history, and genetic testing. The cornerstone of treatment is regular use of colchicine — it largely prevents both attacks and the risk of amyloidosis. The child is monitored in collaboration with pediatric rheumatology.

PFAPA Syndrome

In young children, this is a benign condition characterized by high fever recurring at regular intervals, tonsillitis, mouth sores, and swollen neck lymph nodes; it resolves on its own with age. Fever attacks that recur as regularly as clockwork bring PFAPA to mind.

📅 Online appointment for your child: Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — appointment page

Related articles: High fever · Joint pain · Abdominal pain

This article is for general information purposes only; it does not replace diagnosis and treatment. For any concerns about your child's health, be sure to consult a pediatric health and diseases specialist.

Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — Specialist in Pediatric Health and Diseases, Gaziantep