Behçet's

Behçet's disease is a rare, systemic, vascular inflammatory disorder. The disease is named after Hulusi Behçet, the Turkish dermatologist who first described the triple-symptom complex of recurrent oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, and uveitis. As a systemic disease, it can also involve visceral organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and neurological systems. This syndrome can be fatal due to ruptured vascular aneurysms or severe neurological complications.

Signs and symptoms

The most common symptoms of Behçet's disease include oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, uveitis, and skin lesions. Other symptoms may include arthritis, gastrointestinal ulcers, and neurological complications. The symptoms of Behçet's disease are considered to be due to an autoinflammatory response, but the exact cause is unknown.

Causes

The exact cause of Behçet's disease is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells and tissues. Some researchers believe that a virus or bacterium may trigger the disease in people who have certain genes that make them susceptible to Behçet's.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Behçet's disease is usually based on clinical criteria, as there is no specific laboratory test for the disease. The most widely used diagnostic criteria are the International Study Group (ISG) criteria, which require the presence of recurrent oral ulcers plus two of the following: recurrent genital ulcers, eye inflammation, skin lesions, or a positive pathergy test.

Treatment

Treatment for Behçet's disease is aimed at reducing inflammation and managing the symptoms. This may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and biologic therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be required to manage complications.

See also

• Autoimmune disease
• Inflammatory diseases
• Vasculitis

References

Behçet's Resources
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