Behçet’s disease

Behçet's disease is a rare, chronic, systemic, inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology. It is characterized by recurrent inflammation and ulceration in the mouth and genitals, as well as inflammation in the eyes, skin, and other parts of the body. The disease is named after the Turkish dermatologist Hulusi Behçet, who first described the syndrome in 1937.

Etiology

The exact cause of Behçet's disease is unknown. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. 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.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Behçet's disease vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include:

• Oral ulcers: These are usually the first symptom of Behçet's disease. They are similar to canker sores and can be painful.
• Genital ulcers: These sores are usually more painful than oral ulcers and can leave scars.
• Uveitis: This is inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, which can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision.
• Skin lesions: These can take many forms, including acne-like bumps and red, raised, tender nodules.
• Arthritis: This can cause swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joints, particularly in the knees.

Diagnosis

There is no specific test for Behçet's disease. The diagnosis is usually based on the presence of recurrent oral ulcers and at least two other symptoms. Doctors may use various tests to rule out other diseases with similar symptoms.

Treatment

There is no cure for Behçet's disease, but treatments can help control symptoms. These may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, immunosuppressive drugs to control the immune system, and pain relief medication.

Epidemiology

Behçet's disease is most common in countries along the Silk Road, an ancient trade route that stretched from the Mediterranean Sea to the Far East. It is relatively rare in the United States and Western Europe.

See also

• Autoimmune disease
• Inflammation
• Ulcer

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Behçet’s disease

Behçet’s disease is a rare disease.