Periodic Fever Syndrome

Periodic Fever Syndrome

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:

  • Rash
  • Joint pain and swelling
  • Sores in the mouth
  • Abdominal pain

Other symptoms may occur as well, but they are generally consistent from episode to episode for each child.

Diagnosis of Periodic Fever Syndrome

Doctors at Riley at IU Health use the following tests to diagnose periodic fever syndrome:

  • Physical exam. Your child’s rheumatologist will perform a complete physical exam to check for symptoms of the condition.
  • Review of family medical history. Certain types of periodic fever syndrome (including FMF) are generally only seen in people with a specific family background, such as those of Mediterranean descent. That is why speaking openly with your child’s doctor about your family history can help the doctor make a diagnosis.
  • Blood test. Your child’s doctor may check your child’s blood for elevated levels of certain signs of inflammation such as elevated white blood cells.
  • Genetic test. Genetic testing may be used as a complementary method of diagnosis. Combined with other testing, it can help determine whether your child carries the gene associated with certain disorders.

Treatments

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.

Key Points to Remember

  • Children with periodic fever syndrome have recurrent fevers that usually last the same amount of time and are accompanied by the same or similar symptoms with each episode of fever. Those symptoms include swelling, joint pain, sores in the mouth or a rash.
  • There are several disorders that fall under periodic fever syndrome. Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA) is the most common.
  • Treatment will vary based on the type of syndrome your child has. There is no cure for periodic fever syndrome, but the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines to help reduce the symptoms.

Support Services & Resources

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.

Learn More About Riley Support Services

American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology provides education and support for children and families living with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA).

Genetics Home Reference

This National Institutes of Health website shares in-depth information about familial Mediterranean fever, including how it is inherited.

Locations

Locations

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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Departments Treating This Condition