Behçet’s disease is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the blood vessels, causing inflammation and damage to the vessel walls. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including mouth sores, genital ulcers, and eye inflammation.
Behçet's Disease
- Overview
- Symptoms
- Causes
- Diagnosis
- Treatment Options
- Patient Success Stories
- Living with Behçet's Disease
- Contact Us
Overview
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Behçet’s disease include:
- Mouth sores (oral ulcers)
- Genital ulcers
- Eye inflammation (uveitis)
- Skin rashes and lesions
- Joint pain and swelling
- Fatigue and weight loss
- Fever and chills
Causes
The exact cause of Behçet’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some potential triggers include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Abnormal immune system function
- Infections, such as viral or bacterial infections
- Environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins or allergens
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Behçet’s disease can be challenging, as its symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. To diagnose Behçet’s disease, doctors may use a combination of:
- Physical exam to assess joint and muscle function
- Medical history to rule out other conditions
- Laboratory tests, such as blood tests and imaging studies
- Biopsy to examine tissue for inflammation and damage
Treatment Options
At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, our team of pediatric rheumatologists and specialists offer a range of treatment options to manage Behçet’s disease symptoms and prevent long-term damage to the blood vessels. These may include:
- Medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
- Pain relief medications to manage pain and discomfort
- Lifestyle modifications, such as staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities
- Immunomodulatory medications to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation
- Surgery to repair damaged blood vessels
Patient Success Stories
At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Behçet’s Disease. Here’s why families trust us:
“My son was diagnosed with Behçet's disease at age 10. The team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital was amazing. They worked with us to develop a treatment plan that helped him manage his symptoms and prevent long-term damage to his blood vessels. We're grateful for their expertise and compassion.”
Lisamother of a patient with Behçet's Disease
Behçet's Disease
With proper treatment and care, most children with Behçet's disease can manage their symptoms and prevent long-term damage to their blood vessels. However, some may experience persistent symptoms or develop complications, such as eye damage or neurological problems.
No, Behçet's disease cannot be prevented. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent long-term damage to the blood vessels.
Encourage your child to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities, and take their medications as directed. Also, educate yourself and your child about Behçet's disease and its management.
Contact Us
If your child has been diagnosed with Behçet’s disease or you have concerns about their blood vessel health, please contact us to schedule an appointment with our pediatric rheumatology team. We’re here to provide the best possible care for your child.
Contact us today to learn more about our Behçet’s Disease treatment options.
- Phone: +254-709-529-000, +254-733-645-000
- Email: Info@gerties.org
- Online Scheduling: https://www.gerties.org/book-appointment/
