Urine leukotriene B4 in familial Mediterranean fever.

Objective. To determine urinary leukotriene B4 (LTB4) levels and their role in FMF. Methods. Urinary LTB4 levels were studied using a commercial ELISA kit in 12 FMF patients during abdominal attacks, and 20 FMF patients during remission. Results. Urinary LTB4 levels in FMF patients during attacks were comparable to those during remission, but higher than normal levels (p = 0.03). Conclusions. These findings suggest a persistent activation of the leukotriene pathway in FMF. Whether elevated LTB4 levels are the cause or the effect of inflammation is yet to be determined.