August is Autoinflammatory Awareness Month, a month that recognizes the importance of raising awareness and promoting improved care, research, and treatments for autoinflammatory diseases.
Autoinflammatory diseases are rare diseases that stem from the dysregulation of the innate immune system, which is the first responder that reacts quickly to any perceived threats using inflammation as a symptom. These diseases are typically caused by single-gene mutations that affect the inflammatory signaling pathways. These can include:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)
- TNF Receptor-Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS)
- Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS)
These genetic changes cause inflammatory molecules to be released inappropriately, creating the characteristic pattern of episodic attacks or periods of intense inflammation followed by symptom-free intervals.
Additionally, those who have autoinflammatory diseases suffer from systemic inflammation, which includes:
- Fevers
- Rashes
- Abdominal pain
- Joint pain
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Red eyes
- Severe organ inflammation
Most autoinflammatory diseases affect people throughout their entire life. However, a few may develop in adulthood. Many people can have improved quality of life and fewer complications or damage from these complex diseases if they are diagnosed earlier and controlled properly with targeted treatments.
Autoinflammatory diseases can affect anyone. However, certain risk factors cause some people to be affected by autoinflammatory diseases more than others, including:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever, which is more common in people of Mediterranean, North African, Middle Eastern, and Sephardic Jewish ancestry
- TRAPS and CAPS can occur across ethnic groups, but remain quite rare overall
- Family history can play a role as these conditions follow inheritance patterns, although some cases result from new mutations
Autoinflammatory diseases often run in families. When one family member has been diagnosed with FMF, TRAPS, or another autoinflammatory condition, relatives may benefit from getting a genetic screening, especially if they are experiencing any suggestive symptoms.
For families who are planning to have children, understanding carrier status can inform reproductive decisions and help pediatricians watch for early symptoms of infants and young children who may be at risk.
Research into autoinflammatory conditions also contributes to understanding immune dysregulation and cytokine-related disorders, benefiting broader medical knowledge. Raising awareness helps improve diagnosis, treatment, and care for patients with these rare diseases
The goal of Autoinflammatory Awareness Month is to emphasize patient advocacy, education, and global collaboration to enhance the lives of those affected. Autoinflammatory Awareness Month also offers an opportunity to shine light on these often-misunderstood conditions and the biomarkers that can help families and healthcare providers track inflammatory activity over time.
If you or your child experiences recurrent unexplained fevers, particularly with a pattern of accompanying symptoms, consider seeking an evaluation at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.