Perinatal outcomes and long-term infectious morbidity of offspring born to mothers with familial Mediterranean fever

Abstract

To investigate perinatal outcomes and long-term infectious morbidity in children of mothers with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). MethodsA population-based cohort study comparing perinatal outcomes and long-term infectious morbidity of offspring of mothers with and without FMF was conducted. All singleton deliveries between the years 1991-2021 in a tertiary medical center were included. The study groups were followed until 18 years of age for long-term infectious morbidity. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to compare the cumulative incidence of long-term infectious morbidity, and generalized estimation equation (GEE) models as well as Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to control for confounders. ResultsDuring the study period, 356,356 deliveries met the inclusion criteria. 411 of them were women with FMF.Using GEE models, preterm delivery, cesarean delivery, and low birth weight were independently associated with maternal FMF. The total infectious-related hospitalization rate was signi cantly higher in offspring born to mothers with FMF compared to the comparison group (Kaplan-Meier survival curve, log-rank p < 0.001). Using a Cox proportional hazards model, controlling for gestational age, maternal age, diabetes mellitus, cesarean delivery, and hypertensive disorders, being born to a mother with FMF was found to be an independent risk factor for long-term infection-related hospitalization of the offspring. ConclusionMaternal FMF was found to be independently associated with long-term infection-related hospitalization of the offspring. This positive correlation may re ect an intra-uterine pro-in ammatory environment which may result in the offspring's long-term susceptibility to infection. What does this study add to the clinical workMothers with FMF should consider consulting their physicians regarding the need for long-term follow-up of the newborns due to their susceptibility to infectious morbidity. although Further research is needed.