Objective: The aim of this study is to compare MEFV gene mutation carrier Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) patients with non-carrier AS patients with respect to clinical findings and quality of life (QOL) measures.
 

Materials and Methods: Fifty-five AS patients fulfilled the modified New York criteria were enrolled in the study. Patients were grouped as MEFV gene mutation negative patients (Group I) and MEFV gene mutation positive patients (Group II). Visual analague scale (VAS) was used to assess the activity pain and pain at rest. Disease activity and functional capacity of patients were evaluated by using Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI). QOL and depression was assessed by using Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) respectively. 
 

Results: Thirty-two patients (28 males, 4 females) were in group I and 23 patients (18 males, 5 females) were in group II. VAS for pain at rest, VAS for acivity pain, BASDAI and BASFI scores of group II was significantly higher than those of group I (p<0.01). When two groups were compared for SF-36 subscales and BDI scores, except social function, all scores were significantly lower in group II . VAS for pain at rest, VAS for acivity pain, BASDAI scores, BASFI scores and duration of disease was significantly correlated with BDI scores and all SF-36 subscales (p<0.0001). The MEFV mutations determined in group II patients were E148Q in 8 patients, M694V in 8 patients, M680I in three patients, V726A in two patients, M694V/M680I in one patient, M694V/E148Q in one patient.
 

Conclusion: In our study, we found that clinical findings and QOL are worse at MEFV gene mutation carrier AS patients. In conclusion we think that ıt is beneficial to diagnose these patients earlier, plan and maintain the treatment according to this condition.