Understanding Behcet’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and More

6 min readMar 17, 2025

What is Behcet’s Disease?

Behcet’s disease is a rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that affects multiple parts of the body. Named after the Turkish dermatologist Hulusi Behcet, who first described the condition in 1937, this disease is characterized by recurrent ulcers in the mouth and genitals, along with various other symptoms that can affect the eyes, skin, joints, and even internal organs. Behcet’s disease is considered an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This leads to inflammation in various parts of the body, causing a wide range of Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes that can vary from person to person. While the exact cause of Behcet’s disease remains unknown, researchers believe that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development.

Prevalence and Demographics

Behcet’s disease is relatively rare, with its prevalence varying significantly across different regions of the world. It is most common in countries along the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting the East and West. Turkey, Iran, and Japan have the highest prevalence rates, with estimates ranging from 20 to 420 cases per 100,000 people.

The disease typically affects young adults between the ages of 20 and 40, although it can occur at any age. Both men and women can develop Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes, but the severity and specific symptoms may differ between genders. In some regions, men tend to have more severe symptoms, while in others, the disease affects both genders equally.

Common Symptoms of Behcet’s Disease

Behcet’s disease can manifest in various ways, and symptoms may appear and disappear over time. The most common symptoms include:

1. Mouth Ulcers

Painful sores in the mouth, often resembling canker sores
It may appear on the tongue, gums, inside of cheeks, or lips
Usually heal within 1–2 weeks but tend to recur frequently

2. Genital Ulcers

Similar to mouth ulcers but located on the genitals
It can be painful and may leave scars
Often, they heal within a few weeks

3. Skin Lesions

Various types of skin problems, including acne-like bumps, nodules, or ulcers
It may appear on the legs, arms, or other parts of the body
It can be painful or itchy

4. Eye Inflammation

Uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye)
Retinal vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels in the retina)
It can cause blurred vision, eye pain, redness, and sensitivity to light
It may lead to vision loss if left untreated

5. Joint Pain and Swelling

Typically affects knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists
Can cause arthritis-like symptoms
It may be accompanied by warmth and redness in the affected joints

6. Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Abdominal pain and diarrhea
Ulcers in the digestive tract
Bleeding in the intestines (in severe cases)

7. Vascular Symptoms

Inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis)
It can lead to blood clots, aneurysms, or narrowing of blood vessels
It may affect both arteries and veins

8. Neurological Symptoms

Headaches or migraines
Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord)
Stroke-like symptoms
Cognitive changes or personality alterations

It’s important to note that not all individuals with Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes will experience all of these symptoms. The severity and frequency of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and may change over time.

Causes and Risk Factors of Behcet’s Disease

The exact cause of Behcet’s disease remains unknown, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contributes to its development. Some of the potential causes and risk factors include:

Genetic Factors

HLA-B51 gene: This gene, which is involved in immune system function, is strongly associated with Behcet’s disease. However, not everyone with this gene will develop the condition, and not everyone with Behcet’s disease has this gene.
Family history: Having a close relative with Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes increases the risk of developing the condition, suggesting a genetic component.

Environmental Triggers

Infections: Some researchers believe that certain viral or bacterial infections may trigger the onset of Behcet’s disease in genetically susceptible individuals. However, no specific pathogen has been definitively linked to the disease.
Geographic location: The higher prevalence of Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes in certain regions suggests that environmental factors may play a role in its development.

Immune System Dysfunction

Behcet’s disease is classified as an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This leads to inflammation in various parts of the body, causing the characteristic symptoms of the disease.

Other Potential Risk Factors

Age: While Behcet’s disease can occur at any age, it most commonly develops in young adults between 20 and 40.
Gender: In some regions, men tend to have more severe symptoms, while in others, the disease affects both genders equally.
Ethnicity: People of Middle Eastern, Turkish, or East Asian descent have a higher risk of developing Behcet’s disease.

Diagnosis of Behcet’s Disease

Diagnosing Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes can be challenging because its symptoms often resemble those of other conditions. There is no single definitive test for Behcet’s disease, so diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical observation, medical history, and various tests to rule out other conditions.

Diagnostic Criteria

The International Study Group for Behcet’s Disease has established criteria for diagnosis, which include:

Recurrent oral ulcers (at least three times in a 12-month period)
Plus at least two of the following:
Recurrent genital ulcers
Eye lesions (uveitis or retinal vasculitis)
Skin lesions (erythema nodosum, pseudofolliculitis, or papulopustular lesions)
Positive pathergy test (a skin prick test that measures hyperreactivity)

Diagnostic Tests

While no specific test can confirm Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes, several tests may be used to support diagnosis and rule out other conditions:

Blood tests: To check for inflammation markers and rule out other autoimmune disorders
Pathergy test: A small needle prick to the skin to see if a pustule forms within 24–48 hours
Eye examinations: To check for uveitis or retinal vasculitis
Imaging tests, Such as MRI or CT scans, to check for neurological involvement

Treatment Options for Behcet’s Disease

There is no cure for Behcet’s disease, but various treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment plans are typically tailored to each individual’s specific symptoms and may include:

Medications

Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
Immunosuppressants: Such as azathioprine, cyclosporine, or methotrexate to control the overactive immune response
Biologic drugs: Like tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors for severe cases
Colchicine: To treat oral and genital ulcers and some skin lesions
Pain relievers: To manage joint pain and other discomfort

Topical Treatments

Corticosteroid creams or ointments for skin lesions
Mouth rinses containing corticosteroids for oral ulcers

Lifestyle Management

Stress reduction techniques
Regular exercise to maintain joint flexibility
Avoiding triggers that may exacerbate symptoms

Regular Monitoring

Regular eye exams to detect and treat eye inflammation early
Routine check-ups to monitor disease activity and adjust treatment as needed

Living with Behcet’s Disease

While Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes can be challenging to manage, many people with the condition lead fulfilling lives with proper treatment and care. Here are some tips for living with Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes:

Educate yourself about the condition to better understand and manage your symptoms
Work closely with your healthcare team to develop an effective treatment plan
Join support groups or connect with others who have Behcet’s disease to share experiences and coping strategies
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques
Be vigilant about follow-up care and monitoring to prevent complications

Conclusion

Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes is a complex inflammatory disorder that can affect multiple body parts. While its exact cause remains unknown, ongoing research continues to improve our understanding of the disease and develop more effective treatments. By recognizing the symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care, individuals with Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes can better manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life.

An experienced homeopathic practitioner, Dr. Vikas Singhal specializes in treating chronic inflammatory conditions like Behcet’s disease. His clinic, Dr. Singhal Homeo, provides personalized treatment plans to reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being. With his expertise in homeopathy, he offers natural remedies that complement conventional treatments, helping patients manage Behcet’s disease — symptoms and causes more effectively. His holistic approach can offer relief and improve your quality of life.

Call or WhatsApp us at +91 9056551747 to learn more or book an appointment.