Peripheral nerve involvement in Behçet’s disease; an electrophysiological study

Abstract

Behçet’s disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory disease which is best described as a multisystem vasculitis. Central nervous system involvement is common in BD, but peripheral nerve involvement is uncommon. Aim of the workTo determine peripheral nerve involvement; both clinically and electrophysiologically in Behçet patients and to study its relation to disease duration and activity scores. Patients and methodsThis study was carried out on 18 patients suffering from BD. Disease activity was assessed by Behçet Disease Current Activity Form (BDCAF). Peripheral neuropathy was assessed by the reduced version of the Total Neuropathy Score. Electrophysiological studies including nerve conduction studies and F waves of peripheral nerves were performed on all patients. ResultsThere was a significant difference in the percentage of sensory and motor nerve affection (p<0.05) in BD patients. Sural nerve latencies and conduction velocities were abnormal in 50% of patients on the right and in 44.4% of patients on the left side. Sural nerve latencies were significantly correlated with disease duration (p<0.05 for right side and p<0.01 for left side). Correlations between F wave frequencies and disease duration were significant for right and left peroneal nerves (p<0.01 and p<0.05 respectively) and highly significant for right and left median nerves (p<0.001). ConclusionPeripheral nerve involvement is present in BD. The longer the disease duration; the more is the affection of the peripheral nerves. Full neurological assessment and electrophysiological studies are necessary in the follow up of Behçet patients.