Juvenile Periodic Fever Syndromes in Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
Introduction to Periodic Fever Syndromes
Juvenile periodic fever syndromes are a group of rare, autoinflammatory conditions characterized by recurrent fever episodes interspersed with periods of wellness. These syndromes typically affect children and are not caused by infectious agents like viruses or bacteria. Instead, they often stem from genetic mutations inherited from parents. The most common types of periodic fever syndromes include:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)
- Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, and Adenitis (PFAPA)
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS)
- Hyperimmunoglobulin D Syndrome (HIDS)
- Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disease (NOMID)
- Muckle-Wells Syndrome
- Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome
Symptoms of Periodic Fever Syndromes
The hallmark symptom of these syndromes is recurrent fever. However, children may also experience additional symptoms, including:
- Rash
- Abdominal pain
- Mouth sores
- Joint pain or swelling
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
These symptoms can vary significantly in severity and duration, and while the fevers are recurrent, children generally feel well between episodes.
Diagnosis of Periodic Fever Syndromes
Diagnosing periodic fever syndromes involves a comprehensive evaluation by a pediatric rheumatologist. Key aspects of the diagnostic process include:
- Medical History: Detailed account of the child's health and family history.
- Symptom Assessment: Identification of specific symptoms and their patterns.
- Ethnicity Consideration: Certain syndromes are more prevalent in specific ethnic groups.
- Blood Tests: To check for inflammation markers and rule out other conditions.
- Genetic Testing: May be recommended to confirm hereditary syndromes.
Given the overlap in symptoms with other conditions, it is crucial for a physician experienced in these syndromes to conduct the evaluation.
Treatment Options for Periodic Fever Syndromes
While there is currently no cure for many periodic fever syndromes, effective management strategies exist to alleviate symptoms. Treatment plans may include:
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce inflammation and manage pain.
- Corticosteroids: Sometimes used during severe flare-ups to control inflammation.
- Colchicine or Cimetidine: These medications may be prescribed depending on the specific syndrome.
The treatment approach is tailored to each child's unique condition and symptom profile.
Pediatric Rheumatology at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), the Division of Pediatric Rheumatology specializes in diagnosing and managing juvenile periodic fever syndromes. The team is committed to providing compassionate care and expert treatment tailored to each child's needs. They utilize a multidisciplinary approach that includes collaboration with geneticists, immunologists, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care.
Juvenile periodic fever syndromes represent a complex group of conditions that require specialized knowledge for effective diagnosis and management. At SSMC, children suffering from these syndromes receive personalized treatment plans aimed at improving their quality of life and managing symptoms effectively. For families seeking expert care for their child's periodic fever syndrome, SSMC's Pediatric Rheumatology Division stands ready to assist with comprehensive evaluation and treatment options.
Why choose SSMC?
The Division of Paediatric Rheumatology includes a multidisciplinary team led by experienced consultants specialising in Paediatric Rheumatology. We adopt a multifaceted, holistic approach when assessing and treating unusual cases of autoimmune or autoinflammatory diseases. Working closely with physiotherapists, podiatrists, clinical pharmacists, nurses, and psychologists, when needed, our team fully utilises SSMC's advanced technological capabilities to deliver the finest medical care conceivable.
Special technology & unique devices
- Intra articular Triamcinolone Hexacetonide (Long acting steroid) injections for paediatric patients in our clinic and if needed, we give it under general anesthesia.
- Day Care Infusions of Intravenous steroids, biologic treatment, chemotherapy, Rituхimab, IVIG, Bisphosphonate for rheumatology patients.
- Assessment of possible recurrent fever syndrome to know its underlying causes.
