Evaluation of Bone Mineral Density in Prepubertal Children with Familial Mediterranean Fever

Abstract

Objective: Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a hereditary autosomal recessive chronic periodic inflammatory disease, characterized by recurrent fever polyserositis and skin manifestations. The aim of this study was to investigate the bone mineral density (BMD) in prepubertal children with FMF and to determine the relationship between bone density and demographic, laboratory characteristics of the disease. Material and Method: Thirty two previously diagnosed, attack-free, prepubertal FMF patients who were receiving regular colchicine treatment were included in the study. Demographic and clinical data of patients, acute phase reactants, biochemical parameters of bone turnover, bone age, and L1-L4 vertebral mineral density were evaluated. The results of the patients were compared with values determined for healthy Turkish children. Results: All of the patients had z-scores which were greater than -2. Acute phase values and bone metabolism markers were within normal limits. No correlation was found between the aBMD Z-score and demographic data, acute phase reactants and bone metabolism markers. There was a negative correlation between delay in diagnosis and aBMD Z- score. Conclusion: Although aBMD Z-scores were normal in children with FMF the aBMD Z score was found to be lower in children who had had a delay in treatment. Early initiated colchicine therapy is important for optimal bone health in these patients.