Circulating immune complexes in recurrent polyserositis. (Familial mediterranean fever, periodic disease).

Increased levels of circulating immune complexes (CIC) were demonstrated by the Clq binding assay in 22 (27%) out of 81 patients with recurrent polyserositis. The prevalence of increased CIC was significantly higher in Jewish patients of North African origin (42%) than in subjects of other ethnic groups (6%). North African patients also manifested an increased familial incidence, earlier onset of symptoms and a higher frequency of arthritis. There was no correlation between increased CIC levels and disease activity. These findings suggest that the immune response of North African patients differs from that of subjects of other ethnic groups and that this difference is possibly genetically determined.