[Fever of unknown origin and colchicine-sensitive amyloidosis: familial Mediterranean fever?].

A 39-year-old man who had for 20 years suffered from recurrent fever, abdominal pain and joint pains was diagnosed to have generalized amyloidosis type AA. Suspected of having familial mediterranean fever (FMF) he was treated with colchicine, 2 mg daily. Within four years the fever bouts became milder and the amyloidosis no longer progressed. Since the patient was a foundling it was impossible to prove FMF, despite the typical signs and the successful treatment.