[Familial Mediterranean fever].

Familial Mediterranean Fever is a genetically determined disease occurring predominantly in Arabs, Armenians, Jews and very rarely in Turks. It is characterized by moderately elevated body temperature and by abdominal, pulmonary or arthritic complaints. These symptoms are recurrent appearing at short intervals and persisting for not more than two days. Renal amyloidosis may be a complication. Thus, treatment should be continued for life. The pathomechanism of the disease is not clear. Colchicine has been shown to give good symptomatic relief. Surprisingly, the prolonged use of this mitotic poison is virtually devoid of untoward side effects, even in pregnancy and childhood.