Concurrence of protracted febrile myalgia syndrome and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection: Case report

Abstract

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is characterized by recurrent attacks of inflammation in predominantly serosal and synovial membranes, is caused by MEFV gene mutations resulting in the emergence of abnormal pyrin production. Protracted febrile myalgia syndrome (PFMS), a kind of vasculitis requiring corticosteroid treatment, is associated with M694V mutation of MEFV gene. Patients with FMF are susceptible to certain antigens, some of which cause mild stimulation of immune response leading to typical FMF attack. Here we report a case where the patient developed PFMS with FMF concurrently with atypical pneumoniae secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Mycoplasma pneumoniae-associated cytokine release may be a predisposing or triggering factor for FMF and we aimed to discuss the possible mechanisms of concomitant M.pneumonia infection and FMF-associated PFMS.