Periodic fever syndrome is a group of disorders in which a child has recurrent episodes of fever over time, usually accompanied by the same symptoms. Each episode of fever usually lasts roughly the same length of time. These disorders are genetic conditions that are very rare. Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA) is the most common type of periodic fever syndrome in children. Other common types include familial Mediterranean fever (FMF).
Symptoms that appear with the recurrent fever associated with periodic fever syndrome include:
Other symptoms may occur as well, but they are generally consistent from episode to episode for each child.
Doctors at Riley at IU Health use the following tests to diagnose periodic fever syndrome:
There is no cure for periodic fever syndrome, though treatment can usually help prevent symptoms of the condition. Different treatments are used for different syndromes. Your child’s rheumatologist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines to help reduce the symptoms.
Visit the trusted websites below to learn more about periodic fever syndrome.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
The American College of Rheumatology provides education and support for children and families living with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA).
This National Institutes of Health website shares in-depth information about familial Mediterranean fever, including how it is inherited.
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.
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