Behcet's

Behçet's disease, also known as Behçet's syndrome or Silk Road disease, is a rare, chronic, autoimmune disease that causes blood vessel inflammation throughout the body. The disease is named after Hulusi Behçet, a Turkish dermatologist who first described the condition in 1937.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Behçet's disease can vary widely among individuals but commonly include:

• Oral ulcers: Painful sores in the mouth.
• Genital ulcers: Sores on the genital area.
• Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea in the eye, which can lead to blindness.
• Skin lesions: Various types of skin rashes and lesions.

Other symptoms may include arthritis, gastrointestinal issues, and neurological problems.

Complications

Complications of Behçet's disease can be severe and may include:

• Blindness: Due to severe uveitis.
• Thrombosis: Blood clots in veins and arteries.
• Aneurysm: Abnormal bulging of blood vessels.

Causes

The exact cause of Behçet's disease is unknown. It is believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Certain genes, such as HLA-B51, have been associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical criteria, which include recurrent oral ulcers along with at least two other symptoms such as genital ulcers, eye inflammation, or skin lesions. The pathergy test, where a small needle prick leads to a skin reaction, can also aid in diagnosis.

Differential Diagnosis

Conditions that may present similarly to Behçet's disease include:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Crohn's disease
• Herpes simplex

Treatment

There is no cure for Behçet's disease, but treatment aims to reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Common treatments include:

• Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation.
• Immunosuppressants: To control the immune system.
• Colchicine: To reduce inflammation and pain.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Behçet's disease varies. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms, while others may have severe complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the disease effectively.

Related Pages

• Autoimmune disease
• Hulusi Behçet
• Uveitis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Crohn's disease