What is Behcet’s Disease ?
Behçet's disease is an uncommon, long-term autoimmune condition characterized by blood vessel inflammation throughout the body. Typical manifestations include recurring ulcerations in the mouth and genital areas, skin eruptions, and ocular inflammation.
Symptoms of Behcet Disease
- 1. Oral ulcers: Painful sores inside the mouth
- 2. Genital ulcers: Painful lesions on the genital area
- 3. Skin lesions: Acne-like bumps or red, tender nodules
- 4. Eye inflammation: Redness, pain, or blurred vision due to uveitis
- 5. Joint pain: Swelling and pain, mainly in knees or ankles
- 6. GI symptoms: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or bleeding
- 7. Neurological signs: Headaches, memory issues, or stroke-like symptoms
- 8. Vascular issues: Blood clots or vein inflammation
Understanding the Impacts of Behcet’s Disease on Your Health
Behçet’s disease primarily impacts the body through widespread inflammation of blood vessels, leading to painful and recurring symptoms like mouth and genital ulcers, skin lesions, and eye inflammation. However, its hidden impact lies in its unpredictable flares and potential to affect deeper systems—such as the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and blood vessels—causing long-term complications like vision loss, stroke-like events, or organ damage. Early detection of Behçet’s disease is crucial, as it allows for timely management of inflammation and prevention of serious complications.
Consult Our Dermatologist
- Dr. Ibrahim Nafee, MD (Dermatology) : Specializes in dermatology with a focus on treating Behçet’s disease. Book Appointment
- Dr. Anna Chacon, MBBS : Board-certified Dermatologist with expertise in Behçet’s disease and skin disorder management. Book Appointment
- Dr. Abdel-naser, MD, FACHARZT : Experienced dermatologist known for his compassionate approach to treating Behçet’s disease. Book Appointment
Importance and Benefits of Consulting a Dermatologist Online
Dermatologists are vital for early Behçet's diagnosis through pathergy testing and differentiating it from similar conditions. Their expertise becomes especially important when skin symptoms appear, as these are typically among the first recognizable signs of the disease. Turkey has the highest worldwide prevalence of Behçet's disease, with rates varying dramatically from 20 to 602 cases per 100,000 people across different regions.
How Our Platform Connects You with Dermatologists
Easily schedule video and audio consultations with expert Dermatologists specializing in Behçet’s disease through our user-friendly platform. Choose your preferred doctor, book a convenient appointment, and receive a personalized evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan. Benefit from electronic prescriptions and medical certificates for comprehensive dermatological care.
100% Refund Policy
We value your satisfaction and confidence in our services. If, for any reason, your consultation does not occur, we offer a 100% refund policy to ensure your peace of mind.
FAQ
The exact cause of Behçet's disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues, particularly the blood vessels. Genetic factors appear to play a significant role, as the condition is more common in people with certain genetic markers, such as HLA-B51. Environmental triggers, including infections or exposure to certain bacteria or viruses, may also contribute to the onset or flare-ups of the disease in genetically predisposed individuals. While the disease is not inherited directly, a family history can increase the risk.
You should see a dermatologist or specialist if you experience recurring symptoms such as painful mouth or genital ulcers, unexplained skin rashes, eye redness or vision problems, joint pain, or any unusual swelling or sensitivity in your body. Early evaluation is important for proper diagnosis and to prevent complications. If you have already been diagnosed with Behçet’s disease, regular follow-ups with a specialist are essential to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Treatment for Behçet's disease is individualized according to symptom severity and presentation. Therapeutic approaches aim to suppress inflammation, control acute episodes, and prevent complications. Management typically includes corticosteroids for anti-inflammatory effects and immunosuppressants to modulate immune response. Mild manifestations such as oral and genital ulcerations may respond to topical applications. More aggressive therapy including biologics may be necessary for ocular, vascular, or neurological involvement. A multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, rheumatologists, and ophthalmologists is often required to address the multisystem nature of this condition and provide tailored care.
Behçet’s disease can affect anyone, but it is more commonly seen in people between the ages of 20 and 40. It is most prevalent in regions along the ancient Silk Road, including countries like Turkey, Iran, Japan, and other parts of the Middle East and Asia. Both men and women can develop the condition, although men may experience more severe symptoms. People with a family history of Behçet’s disease or those who carry certain genetic markers, such as HLA-B51, are at a higher risk. Environmental factors and infections may also play a role in triggering the disease in individuals who are genetically predisposed.