Publication:

Correlation between pulmonary function tests and inflammatory markers in familial mediterranean fever patients

Background Familial mediterranean fever (FMF) is a disease frequently seen in some races and characterized by recurrent attacks affecting various organs with chronic inflammation. As a result of chronic inflammation, microvascular changes may occur. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between pulmonary function tests and inflammatory markers in FMF patients.

Methods Seventy-five FMF patients followed up at the Department of Internal Medicine who did not have any comorbidity affecting lung functions and 64 healthy subjects were enrolled. Both groups underwent CO (carbon monoxide) diffusion analysis and pulmonary function tests. Inflammatory markers of the groups were recorded as well and compared with CO diffusion and pulmonary function tests.

Results FVC%, FEV1, FEV1%, FEV1/FVC, PEF, FEF25-75% values of the patient group was significantly lower than those in the control group. When compared, DLCO%, DLCO/VA, DLCO/VA% were also significantly lower than controls. There was a significant correlation between pulmonary function tests and ESR, hsCRP and fibrinogen levels.

Conclusions Inflammation in FMF patients may lead to damage on pulmonary tissue that causes an impairment in pulmonary functions.