Behcet’s Disease: A Multifaceted Affliction

Abstract

Behcet’s disease is a rare systemic vasculitic disorder characterized by a triad of symptoms that includes recurrent mouth ulcers, genital ulcers and inflammation of uvea. The prevalence of this disease tends to be high in the third or fourth decades of life. Genetic and environmental factors may influence the development and progression of this disease. In this article, the involvement of the signs and symptoms of oral, genital, dermatological, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, ocular, neurologic, vascular and cardiac systems were reviewed along with the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Diagnosis is quite complex due to the lack of specific laboratory, radiological and histological findings. Hence, the diagnosis can be completely depends upon the existing clinical features of that particular individual. Pathergy test is considered as an optional diagnostic test in the diagnosis of this disease due to the differences in the evaluation and application of the test. The treatment of Behcet’s disease varies with organs involved, severity of lesion and clinical manifestations associated with the patients. There is no cure for this disease and all the available treatments are mainly focused in resolving symptoms and recurrence. Since this condition is rare, the health care professionals should have regular discussions regarding the treatment goals for better therapeutic outcome and to prevent the further complications. Proper coordination and communication among the health care professionals of various departments is a prerequisite for effective therapy as this disease requires a periodic monitoring of multidisciplinary approach.