Behçet's Disease

Pathology

Pathology is characterized by inflammation of small-sized venules, leading to the creation of characteristic ulcerations of the skin, eyes, and mucosa.

Aetiology

The primary aetiology of pathology is HLA B51, a condition that is more commonly seen in males of Turkish or Iranian descent.

Symptoms

• Oral aphthous ulcers
• Skin lesions, including papulo-pustules
• Uveitis and/or iritis
• Genital ulceration
• Pathergy reaction, commonly evidenced by a papule of more than 2mm appearing with 48 hours of a needle-prick in the skin.

Signs

• Arthralgia
• Thrombophlebitis
• Epididymitis
• Malaise
• Gastrointestinal ulceration

Investigations

• Blood tests can reveal elevated levels of ESR and CRP
• Papule swabs must be separately tested, as they usually come back sterile

Treatment

Medical treatments for pathology include the use of steroids, cyclosporin, and other immunosuppressants.

Complications

Complications of pathology can include major ocular damage, including optic atrophy, and an accompanying visual impairment.

Prognosis

In cases where the pathology has been allowed to progress before it is treated, prognoses may be poor due to the severity of the condition.