Behçet's Disease is a chronic and rare inflammatory condition that can affect different parts of the body at the same time. It is considered a vasculitis, that is, an inflammation of blood vessels, and can compromise anything from the skin and mucous membranes to more complex organs, such as the eyes, nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.
Although it does not have a single defined cause, it is known that there is a combination of genetic and immunological factors involved, leading the body to react inadequately against itself.
What is Behçet's Disease?
Behçet's Disease is characterised by recurrent episodes of inflammation. Symptoms can arise in flares, with periods of improvement between them.
The most common signs include:
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Recurrent oral ulcers (usually painful and frequent)
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Genital lesions, similar to ulcers
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Eye inflammation (uveitis), which can cause pain, redness and even vision loss
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Skin lesions, such as painful nodules or inflammatory acne
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Pain and swelling in the joints
In some cases, more serious manifestations may occur, such as:
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Inflammation of blood vessels (thrombosis)
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Neurological involvement
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Intestinal changes
When to suspect Behçet's Disease?
Not every ulcer or skin lesion means something serious. The critical point is the pattern of repetition and association of symptoms.
You should consider investigating the possibility of Behçet's Disease when there is:
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Frequent ulcers (more than 3 episodes per year), especially if severe
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Association with recurrent genital ulcers
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Eye symptoms (pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity)
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Skin lesions associated with the episodes
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History of thrombosis without a clear cause
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Neurological symptoms associated with inflammation
An important point: the diagnosis is not made by a single test. It is clinical, based on the combination of signs and the exclusion of other diseases.
Who to consult?
In the face of suspicion, the most appropriate approach is to start the evaluation with a:
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Rheumatologist → is the main specialist, as they treat systemic inflammatory diseases
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Dermatologist → for assessment of skin and mucosal lesions
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Ophthalmologist → essential if there are eye symptoms
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Other specialists may be involved, depending on the symptoms (neurologist, gastroenterologist)
That is, it is a disease that frequently requires a multidisciplinary approach.
Is there treatment?
Yes, and here is an important point:
the earlier the diagnosis, the better the disease control and the lower the risk of complications.
Treatment is individualised and may include:
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Anti-inflammatory agents
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Corticosteroids
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Immunosuppressants
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Biological therapies (in more complex cases)
The aim is not just to relieve symptoms, but to prevent permanent damage, especially to the eyes and nervous system.
Behçet's Disease is not common, but it should not be ignored when signs appear in a repetitive and associated manner.
If you notice that your body is presenting recurrent symptoms, especially frequent ulcers combined with other signs, this should not be treated as something isolated.
Seeking medical evaluation at the right time completely changes the prognosis.
This content is informational in nature and does not replace an individualised medical consultation.
Dr Rebeca Soares Andrade. CRM-GO 39335