CAPS (Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndrome) Family Connections
CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome) is a familial disease that generally occurs due to an inherited gene that behaves differently and causes a chain reaction involving a number of proteins. The mutations (accidental changes) on the gene make cryopyrin, a protein in cells, hyperactive, which leads to the uncontrolled secretion of IL-1ß,* causing inflammation in the body. IL-1ß is a protein that is part of the body's immune system.
When a person with the mutated gene for cryopyrin has a child, that gene may be passed on. The child then has the likelihood of developing a form of CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome).
Just because someone in a family has CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome) doesn't mean all members will be affected. Usually, the gene can be traced back for generations, but sometimes the mutations happen spontaneously without anyone else in the family having the disease.
That is why it is important for patients to talk to their doctors if they think they might have CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome). A link to an ancestor with CAPS may be revealed or possibly another family member presently afflicted with the disease may be discovered.
Knowledge of family connections to CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome) can be valuable to the health of future generations.
*Also called IL-1-beta and interleukin-1-beta.
