Behçet's Disease, a Rare Disorder

Q:  My son was recently diagnosed with Behçet's disease. Can you tell me what that is and how it is treated?

A:  Behçet's disease is a rare form of arthritis that is characterized by sores or ulcers on many membranes of the body, primarily those of the mouth and genitals. Other commonly affected areas include the skin and eyes. In rare cases, Behçet's affects the brain, heart, lungs and intestinal tract. 

The disease is more likely to affect people in some parts of the world than others. It is most common in the Middle East, Japan and countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. It is also more common in adults; children under 16 are rarely diagnosed with Behçet's disease. 
The activity of Behçet's comes and goes. People with the disease generally experience a series of disease flares and remissions. Over time, the disease becomes less active; flares tend to become less frequent and severe. 

Treatment for Behçet's varies, depending on the specific areas of the body that are affected. Treatments may include topical salves and gels for mouth and/or genital ulcers; colchicine, oral corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to ease joint pain; and strong immune-suppressing drugs such as chlorambucil (Leukeran) and azathioprine (Imuran) to slow or stop disease that threatens the internal organs.

PAUL HOWARD, MD
Rheumatologist

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