Mild Clinical Presentation of COVID-19 in Childhood FMF Patients Treated with Colchicine

Abstract

Aim: Clinical trials continue for several medical protocols for COVID-19. Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory agent that is highly used medicament for autoimmune disorders, including Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). Based on immunity disrupting the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, we aimed to describe the clinical course of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with childhood-onset FMF on colchicine treatment. Material and Methods: We prepared a survey investigating contact histories, and clinical presentation of childhood-onset FMF patients treated with colchicine and questioned their parents via phone calls or during outpatient visits. In addition, medical record history, treatment, and medication history were obtained from the hospital database. Results: A total of 171 patients, 99 (57.9%) male and 72 (42.1%) female, diagnosed with FMF and who have been under colchicine treatment for at least one month were included in the study. Among patients, 56 (32.7%) have contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case; 43 (25.1%) have suspected family member contact and 13 (7.6%) have non-family contact. Only 15 (8.8%) FMF patients treated with colchicine were PCR diagnosed with COVID-19 disease; all had mild symptoms, none required antiviral treatment, and none were hospitalized. The dose and duration of colchicine use did not significantly differ between the patients with confirmed COVID or not (p=0.112, and p=0.344, respectively). Conclusion: We concluded that pediatric patients with FMF receiving colchicine treatment may not be at increased risk for being infected with SARS-CoV-2 or the severe symptoms of COVID-19.