Behçet syndrome and genital aphthae

Q: Which of the following is required to establish the diagnosis of Behçet syndrome? 

A) genital aphthae

B) oral aphthae

Answer: B

Behçet syndrome, also called Behçet disease, has been known since Hippocrates times but is named after Hulusi Behçet. It is broadly defined as recurrent oral aphthae and any other systemic involvement, as Behçet syndrome involves blood vessels of all sizes (small, medium, and large). Also, it can affect either or both arterial and venous vessels. Although Behçet syndrome is mostly known for its genital involvement, it is not required to establish the diagnosis. It can cause genital aphthae, eye disease, dermal lesions, gastrointestinal involvement, neurologic disease, vascular disease, or even arthritis.

People living along the ancient silk road and Turkey is most affected for reasons not fully understood.

#vasculitis 

References:

1. Feigenbaum A. Description of Behçet's syndrome in the Hippocratic third book of endemic diseases. Br J Ophthalmol 1956; 40:355.

2. Behcet H. Uber rezidivierende, aphthose durch ein virus verursachte geschwure am mund, am auge und an der genitalen. Dermatologische Wochenschrift 1937; 105:1152.

3. Yurdakul S, Hamuryudan V, Yazici H. Behçet syndrome. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2004; 16:38.