Behet’s Disease
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about Behet’s disease.
What Is Behet’s Disease?
Behet’s disease, or Behet’s syndrome, is a rare condition that leads to inflammation of the blood vessels and tissues.
What Are the Symptoms of Behet’s Disease?
- The main symptoms of Behet’s disease include:
- Ulcers in the genital and oral areas
- Eye redness
- Eye pain with blurred vision
- Acne-like spots
- Headache
Pain and swelling in the joints
Most people with Behet’s disease experience severe symptoms for a certain period, referred to as a “flare-up” or relapse, after which the symptoms become more stable.
What Causes Behet’s Disease?
- Behet’s disease is an autoimmune condition with no clear cause, but several factors play a significant role:
Genetics: Behet’s disease tends to bemore common in certain ethnic groups.
It is believed that people with origins from the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and Asia are more susceptible to this condition, although it can affect all ethnic groups.
How IsBehet’s DiseaseDiagnosed?:
- Diagnosing Behet’s disease is challenging due to the broad and general nature of its symptoms, which can overlap with other conditions. There is no specific test for diagnosis. A doctor will take a medical history, perform a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures if necessary, such as:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Scans, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs
- Skin biopsy
Pathergy test: This involves pricking the skin with a needle to see if a specific red spot appears within the next day or two. People with Behet’s often have very sensitive skin.
- Behet’s disease can be confirmed if the person has experienced at least three episodes of mouth ulcers over the past 12 months and has at least two of the following symptoms:
- Genital ulcers
- Eye inflammation
- Skin lesions (any unusual growths or abnormalities appearing on the skin)
Pathergy (extremely sensitive skin)
Potential other causes must be ruled out before the diagnosis is made.
WhatAre theTreatmentsforBehet’sDisease?
- There is no cure for Behet’s disease, but symptoms can generally be managed. Treatment varies as needed, using medications that reduce inflammation in the affected parts of the body, which may include:
- Steroids: Potent anti-inflammatory drugs
- Immunosuppressants: Drugs that reduce the activity of the immune system
Biological treatments: Drugs that target biological processes involved in inflammation
A doctor will devise a specific treatment plan for you based on your symptoms.
How Can Behet’s Disease be Prevented?
A medical consultation is necessary, as there is no clear source of information on prevention.
What Are theComplications Associated withBehet’s Disease?
In severe cases, there is also the potential for serious, life-threatening problems, such as permanent vision loss and strokes.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- If any of these symptoms appear:
- Changes andproblems invision
- Severe and sudden symptoms, including severe headache, stiff neck
Or any of the symptoms mentioned above
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a definitive cure for Behet’s disease?