INFORMATION ON BEHCET'S DISEASE

Behcet's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder which involves all organs and affects the central nervous system, causing memory loss and impaired speech, balance, and movement. Main causes of these diseases are not known but some individuals are affected by a virus. Behcet's disease begins when individuals are in their 20s or 30s of age, although it can happen at any age. It tends to occur more often in men than in women. This disease is common found in Japan, Turkey and Israel, and less common in the United States.

SYNONYMS OF BEHCET'S DISEASE

Synonyms and related keywords:

1. Behçet disease.
2. Behcet syndrome.
3. Oral aphthous ulcer.
4. Uveitis.
5. Canker sores.

CAUSES OF BEHCET'S DISEASE

Main causes of Behcet's are unknown but there may be environmental or viral factors that make a person’s immune system act differently, due to a genetic predisposition. Investigators are researching these and other possible causes. Behcet's is a multi-system disease; it may involve all organs and affect the central nervous system, causing memory loss and impaired speech, balance, and movement.

SYMPTOMS OF BEHCET'S DISEASE

Symptoms of Behcet's disease include:

1. Recurrent oral ulcers.
2. Recurrent genital ulcers.
3. Eye inflammation.
4. Skin lesions.
5. Arthritis.
6. Bowel inflammation.
7. Meningitis.

DIAGNOSIS OF BEHCET'S DISEASE

Before appearance of any symptoms it is vary difficult to diagnosis Behcet's after any symptoms are discovered a physical examination and medical history is needed. Other tests are as skin test, blood test, and eye examinations.

TREATMENT OF BEHCET'S DISEASE

Topical corticosteroids may relieve the pain of oral lesions and lidocaine mouthwash also will alleviate pain. Systemic corticosteroids continue to be useful therapy for most manifestations of Behcet's syndrome. Steroid gels, pastes and creams can be helpful for the mouth and genital ulcers. Colchicine can also minimize recurrent ulcerations. Corticosteroid therapy often leads to rapid control of skin, mucosal, and joint inflammation. Patients with eye symptoms or a history of eye inflammation should be monitored by an ophthalmologist.