The effect of canakinumab treatment on growth parameters in children with familial Mediterranean fever

Introduction/objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effect of canakinumab on growth parameters in children with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). Method We conducted a retrospective analysis of 946 pediatric FMF patients followed in our center, of whom 37 were treated with canakinumab for at least three doses. Patients were assessed for demographic, clinical, and genetic characteristics. Data of height and weight percentiles and Z scores were recorded before and after canakinumab treatment and compared. Results The study group comprised 37 FMF patients with treated canakinumab. The median age (IQR) at diagnosis and canakinumab initiation was 3.0 (2.0–4.3) years and 7.0 (3.6–10.1) years, respectively. The median weight scores and mean body mass index (BMI) values significantly increased after canakinumab treatment. There was no change in height scores following canakinumab treatment. Conclusion Canakinumab treatment has improved off body weight and BMI parameters of FMF patients by controlling disease activity and inflammation. Key Points • To our knowledge, few studies in the literature evaluate the growth parameters of canakinumab treatment in FMF children . • Canakinumab treatment has been shown to affect body weight and BMI positively . • Long-term studies are needed for its effects on height .