Behcet’s Disease

Behçet’s disease (also known as Behçet’s syndrome) is a relatively rare autoimmune vasculitis characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcers. Oral ulcers (aphthous stomatitis) are common, recurring, and may significantly affect swallowing. Genital ulcers can resemble those caused by other conditions.

Other manifestations include:

• Skin lesions
• Uveitis (eye inflammation)
• Arthritis
• Gastrointestinal involvement (enteritis)
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Nervous system involvement (brain inflammation, cognitive disturbances)

Mild oral ulcers may be treated with colchicine. More severe cases, especially with systemic involvement, may require steroids and immunosuppressants. For refractory or severe cases, biologic agents may be used to better control the disease.

Management typically involves immunosuppressive medications, corticosteroids, and symptom-specific therapies, tailored to the patient’s disease severity and organ involvement. Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.