The carrier rate and spectrum of MEFV gene mutations in central and southeastern European populations.

Objectives: Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autosomal-recessive disorder caused by mutations in MEFV gene. Eastern Mediterranean populations have the highest number of carriers, whereas western Mediterranean populations are less frequently affected. The aim of this study was to determine the carrier rate and spectrum of MEFV gene mutations in apparently healthy populations and in suspected FMF patients from central and southeastern European (CSEE) countries.