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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffMost complications of familial Mediterranean fever result if the condition isn't treated or if it's treated irregularly. Complications may include:
- Amyloidosis. This is the most common complication arising from untreated familial Mediterranean fever. Amyloidosis refers to a condition in which a protein called amyloid A deposits in your organs. In cases of FMF, amyloidosis often affects the kidneys, which may cause a kidney disorder called nephrotic syndrome.
- Nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic syndrome results when your kidneys' filtering systems (glomeruli) are damaged. People with this condition may have swollen feet and hands and lose large amounts of protein in their urine. Nephrotic syndrome can lead to blood clots in your kidneys (renal vein thrombosis) or kidney failure.
- Infertility. Inflammation caused by familial Mediterranean fever may also affect your reproductive organs. About one-third of women with this condition are infertile, and about 25 percent of those who become pregnant experience miscarriages.
- Chronic arthritis. Arthritis is common in people with familial Mediterranean fever. The most commonly affected joints are the knee, ankle, hip and elbow. In most cases, the arthritis resolves without joint destruction.
- General discomfort. Familial Mediterranean fever can be a painful condition interfering with the flow of daily life. If your symptoms are intolerable, your doctor might recommend strong pain medication (narcotics) to help make you more comfortable.
