Behcet’s disease

Diagnosis

Behçet’s illness cannot be diagnosed by a single laboratory test. Diagnosis of Behcet’s disease is usually made based on the patient’s symptoms, such as how frequently oral ulcers or mouth sores reoccur in a year. Furthermore, Behcet’s disease must be diagnosed with at least two more signs, such as repeated genital sores, inflammation of the eyes, or skin sores.

Other disorders that cause mouth sores and closely mimic Behçet’s disease must be checked out in order to obtain the right diagnosis. The following tests may be required:

• Blood tests: A blood test may be ordered to rule out some of the other disorders, such as systemic lupus, Crohn’s disease, and other types of vasculitis.
• Pathergy test: A positive result from this test suggests that the immune system is reacting excessively to slight damage. During the test, the healthcare provider will insert a sterile needle into the skin and check the area one to two days later. If positive, a little red bump under the skin where the needle was put will appear.

Treatment

Although there is presently no known cure for Behcet’s disease, there are various medications available to help in symptom management. In mild cases, healthcare providers may suggest pain and inflammation-relieving drugs to address flare-ups. For severe cases, additional medications may be prescribed to manage the condition affecting the entire body.

• Individual treatments: Each sign and symptoms during flares may be prescribed with specific medications to manage it, such as:
  • Skin creams, gels, and ointments: To relieve swelling and discomfort, topical corticosteroid medications are administered to the skin and genital sores.
  • Mouthwash: Pain associated with mouth sores is managed using mouth rinse containing corticosteroids.
  • Eyedrops: If the inflammation is minor, eyedrops containing corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications can alleviate pain and redness.
• Systemic treatments: Systemic treatments are often recommended if topical treatments are ineffective. For instance, colchicine may be prescribed for persistent oral and genital sores. It may also help with joint swelling.

Severe cases of Behcet’s disease necessitate medications to reduce disease damage between flares. These medications usually aim to suppress inflammation and immune function.

The healthcare provider may also prescribe:

• • Corticosteroids for inflammation control: Prednisone and other corticosteroids, which reduces inflammation, are the main treatment for Behcet’s disease. Corticosteroids are frequently combined with another drug to reduce immune system activity. Side effects may include osteoporosis, unwanted weight gain, chronic heartburn, and high blood pressure.
  • Immunosuppressant drugs: Azathioprine and cyclophosphamide are medications that inhibit the immune system from targeting healthy tissues. This can help lessen the inflammation related to Behcet’s disease. Common side effects of these medications include liver and renal issues, low blood counts, and hypertension. These medications may also raise the risk of infection.
  • Biologics: For patients with severe or resistant symptoms, infliximab and adalimumab may be prescribed. These medications suppress a chemical known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) beneficial in treating some of the signs and symptoms of Behcet’s disease. Headache, skin rash, and high susceptibility to infection are possible side effects.

In general, biologics are a class of medications that alter the immune system’s response. Interferon alfa-2b (Intron A) is an example of such a medication that regulates immune system activity to manage inflammation. Interferon alfa-2b can be used alone or in combination with other medications to assist individuals with Behcet’s disease in controlling symptoms such as skin sores, joint discomfort, and eye irritation. Side effects of this medication may include flu-like symptoms such as muscle soreness and fatigue.