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Behçet's Disease

A systemic vasculitis with recurrent oral aphthae, genital ulcers and eye involvement.

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Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Behçet's Disease?

Behçet's disease is a chronic, multisystem disorder that presents with recurrent oral and genital ulcers, eye inflammation, skin lesions and systemic vasculitis. It is much more common in former Silk Road countries such as Turkey, Iran and Japan; Turkey has one of the highest prevalence rates in the world.

Its pathogenesis is not fully understood, but genetic susceptibility (HLA-B51), neutrophil hyperactivation, Th1/Th17-mediated immune responses and infectious triggers are all thought to play a role. It is a rare vasculitis that can affect both arteries and veins and both small and large vessels.

Diagnosis uses the International Behçet's Disease Study Group criteria. A positive pathergy test is particularly valuable in Turkish populations. Eye, central-nervous-system and large-vessel involvement are the major complications that determine prognosis.

Symptoms

Recurrent mouth ulcers (at least three episodes a year)
Painful genital ulcers that leave scars
Uveitis, retinal vasculitis and visual loss
Erythema-nodosum-like skin lesions
A positive pathergy reaction (pustule after a needle prick)
Joint pain and arthritis
Venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis
Neurological symptoms and headache

Risk Factors

Turkish, Middle Eastern or Far Eastern origin
Age 20–40
HLA-B51 positivity
Male sex (usually a more severe course)
A family history of Behçet's disease
Infectious triggers
Stress and trauma
Changes in immune function

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Recurrent mouth ulcers that do not heal
  • A history of genital ulcers
  • Sudden blurred vision or a red eye
  • Leg swelling, pain and redness (suggestive of thrombosis)
  • Neurological complaints (headache, weakness)
  • Unexplained fever and joint pain

Treatment Methods

01
Colchicine (the backbone of treatment for mucocutaneous disease)
02
Topical corticosteroids for oral and genital ulcers
03
Systemic glucocorticoids for flares
04
Immunosuppressants (azathioprine, ciclosporin, methotrexate)
05
TNF-α inhibitors (infliximab, adalimumab)
06
Interferon-α for uveitis
07
Anticoagulation for venous thrombosis
08
Multidisciplinary follow-up with ophthalmology, neurology and vascular teams

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.