Behcet's disease
Behcet's disease is a rare, chronic inflammatory disorder.
Cause[edit | edit source]
The cause of Behcet's disease is unknown, but current research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role.
Onset[edit | edit source]
Behcet's disease generally begins when individuals are in their 20s or 30s, although it can happen at any age. It tends to occur more often in men than in women.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of Behcet's disease include recurrent ulcers in the mouth (resembling canker sores) and on the genitals, and eye inflammation.
Skin lesions[edit | edit source]
The disorder may also cause various types of skin lesions, arthritis, bowel inflammation, meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord), and cranial nerve palsies.
Systemic involvement[edit | edit source]
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.
Complications[edit | edit source]
The effects of the disease may include blindness, stroke, swelling of the spinal cord, and intestinal complications.
Geographic distribution[edit | edit source]
The disease is common in the Middle East, particularly in Turkey, and in Far Eastern nations such as Japan and Korean, but is less common in the United States.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD