View article

Behcet’s disease is a rare form of vasculitis that may have systemic multiorgan involvement. Behcet’s disease was first defined by Hulusi Behcet, a Turkish Professor of Dermatology, in 1937 as a triad of recurrent aphthous stomatitis, genital aphthae, and relapsing uveitis. As this disease can be fatal, an immediate medical treatment is mandatory. So far there is no specific pathological testing or technique available for the diagnosis of the disease, although the International Study Group criteria for the disease are of good sensitivity and specificity. However, quite a portion of patients are misdiagnosed or have been delayed diagnosis. During the ensuing 65 years, multiple systemic associations of the disease including articular, vascular, gastrointestinal, cardiopulmonary, and neurologic involvement have become increasingly apparent. Although the etiology and pathogenesis is not clearly defined, genetic predisposition, infections, and immunological dysfunctions have been implicated. Behcet’s disease has been reported worldwide but has a distinct geographic distribution, with highest prevalences in countries along with the ancient silk route. Although much has been learned during recent years on the pathogenesis and treatment of the disease, it is still an important cause of morbidity and mortality in areas where it is prevalent.