TRAPS

I have children with TRAPS (R121Q) varrient.  They are 4 and 2 years old.  Their inflammation comes about every 5 weeks and lasts about 2 weeks.  Since their symptoms are similar to actual illness, how can we tell the difference and when to use a steriod vs. antibiotic?  What can we expect with this disease.

[Jordanna Joaquina, MS, CGC]

TNF receptor associated periodic syndrome (also known as TRAPS or familial Hibernian fever) is a disorder characterized by recurrent attacks of fever, abdominal pain, localized tender skin lesions (rash), and joint/muscle pain.

We recommend that you and your children meet with a rheumatologist to discuss the natural history of TRAPS as well as their treatment options. You can find a local rheumatologist by going to the American College of Rheumatology website.

You may also benefit from meeting with a medical geneticist, as TRAPS is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. As such, having one copy of the R121Q variant is sufficient to have the symptoms. You can find a medical geneticist by going to the American College of Medical Genetics website.