NCT00001373 · National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)
Familial Mediterranean Fever and Related Disorders: Genetics and Disease Characteristics
What this study is about
This study is designed to explore the genetics and pathophysiology of diseases presenting with intermittent fever, including familial Mediterranean fever, TRAPS, hyper-IgD syndrome, and related diseases.
View original scientific description
This study is designed to explore the genetics and pathophysiology of diseases presenting with intermittent fever, including familial Mediterranean fever, TRAPS, hyper-IgD syndrome, and related diseases. The following individuals may be eligible for this natural history study: 1) patients with known or suspected familial Mediterranean fever, TRAPS, hyper-IgD syndrome or related disorders; 2) relatives of these patients; 3) healthy, normal volunteers 7 years of age or older. Patients will undergo a medical and family history, physical examination, blood and urine tests. Additional tests and procedures may include the following: 1. X-rays 2. Consultations with specialists 3. DNA sample collection (blood or saliva sample) for genetic studies. These might include studies of specific genes, or more complete sequencing of the genome. 4. Additional blood samples a maximum of 1 pint (450 ml) during a 6-week period for studies of white cell adhesion (stickiness) 5. Leukapheresis for collecting larger amounts of white cells for study. For this procedure, whole blood is collected through a needle in an arm vein. The blood flows through a machine that separates it into its components. The white cells are removed and the rest of the blood is returned to the body through another needle in the other arm. Patients may be followed approximately every 6 months to monitor symptoms, adjust medicine dosages, and undergo routine blood and urine tests. They will receive genetic counseling by the study team on the risk of having affected children and be advised of treatment options. Participating relatives will undergo a medical and family history, possibly with a review of medical records, physical examination, blood and urine tests. Additional procedures may include a 24-hour urine collection, X-rays, and consultations with medical specialists. A DNA sample (blood or saliva) will also be collected for genetic studies. Additional blood samples of no more than 550 mL during an 8-week period may be requested for studies of white cell adhesion (stickiness). Relatives who have familial Mediterranean fever, TRAPS, or hyper-IgD syndrome will receive the same follow-up and counseling as described for patients above. Normal volunteers and patients with gout will have a brief health interview and check of vital signs (blood pressure and pulse) and will provide a blood sample (up to 90 ml, or 6 tablespoons). Additional blood samples of no more than 1 pint over a 6-week period may be requested in the future....
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- There are three populations that will be included in this study: subjects with known or suspected autoinflammatory diseases, family members of subjects with known or suspected autoinflammatory diseases, and healthy controls. Persons interested in participation may be given a screening questionnaire to determine eligibility. Questions in the screening questionnaire are important to help us determine if subjects have known autoinflammatory diseases, or if there is a high clinical suspicion of autoinflammatory disease. In order to be eligible to participate in this study as a subject with known or suspected autoinflammatory disease, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Stated willingness to participate in study procedures (which at the very least includes providing a mail-in sample for genetic analysis);
- Regardless of gender, at least one month of age;
- A medical history that, in the expert opinion of the study team, is consistent with the possibility of autoinflammatory disease; and
- Ability of the subject, parents (in the case of children), or Legally Authorized Representative to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document. In order to be eligible to participate in this study as a family member of a subject with known or suspected autoinflammatory disease, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Stated willingness to participate in study procedures (which at the very least includes providing a mail-in sample for genetic analysis);
- Regardless of gender, at least one month of age;
- Relationship, either by blood or marriage, to an individual enrolled or about to be enrolled in the study with known or suspected autoinflammatory disease;
- Likelihood, in the expert opinion of the study team, that analysis of a sample from the individual would advance genetic or functional analysis of the affected relative's possible autoinflammatory condition; and
- Ability of the subject, parents (in the case of children), or Legally Authorized Representative to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document. In order to be eligible to participate in this study as a healthy volunteer, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Stated willingness to participate in study procedures for healthy volunteers;
- Regardless of gender, at least one year old, and not pregnant (by history of a missed menstrual period);
- Likelihood, in the expert opinion of the study team, that a sample from the individual would advance the functional analysis of an autoinflammatory condition under study; and
- Ability of the subject or parents (in the case of children) to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
Exclusion criteria
- For any of the three categories of subjects, an individual will be excluded from participation in this study if he or she has a medical condition that would, in the opinion of the investigators, confuse the interpretation of the study.
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Bethesda, Maryland
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations