Paediatric Behçet disease manifested as recurrent myositis: from an incomplete to a full-blown form

Y Uziel1, A Lazarov, M Cordoba

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Sapir Medical Centre, Tel Aviv University Sackler School of Medicine, Kfar-Saba, Israel. Uziely@inter.net.il

Insights

Recurrent myositis, a rare symptom of Behçet disease, can manifest in children. Early diagnosis of this autoimmune condition is crucial for effective management and preventing severe outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Pediatrics
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Behçet disease is a rare multisystemic inflammatory disorder.
  • Myositis, or muscle inflammation, is an uncommon manifestation of Behçet disease, particularly in pediatric cases.
  • Early diagnosis of Behçet disease in children is often challenging due to incomplete symptom presentation.

Observation:

  • A 12-year-old boy presented with recurrent episodes of localized calf myositis.
  • The myositis episodes were responsive to corticosteroid treatment.
  • A diagnosis of Behçet disease was established after a 3-year follow-up period.

Findings:

  • This case highlights recurrent localized myositis as a primary manifestation of Behçet disease in a pediatric patient.
  • The study underscores the potential for incomplete Behçet disease to evolve into a more severe form, emphasizing muscle involvement.
  • The findings suggest that myositis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained calf pain and limping in children.

Implications:

  • Early recognition of myositis in children may lead to earlier diagnosis of Behçet disease.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management of Behçet disease can prevent long-term complications.
  • This case emphasizes the importance of considering rare presentations of Behçet disease in pediatric rheumatology and neurology.
Abstract

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