A recurrent aphthous stomatitis case due to paediatric Behçet's disease

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Ophthalmology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Behçet's disease is a rare systemic vasculitis affecting children.
• It classically presents with recurrent oral ulcers, genital ulcers, and uveitis.
• The exact etiology remains unknown, but it involves systemic inflammation.

Observation:

• A 12-year-old girl initially presented with recurrent aphthous stomatitis.
• Her condition was monitored over time.
• Other characteristic symptoms of Behçet's disease emerged during follow-up.

Findings:

• The patient's oral lesions were similar to major aphthous stomatitis (Sutton disease).
• The initial oral symptoms could be easily missed without inquiry into other systemic signs.
• The development of additional cardinal signs confirmed the diagnosis of Behçet's disease.

Implications:

• Early recognition of recurrent aphthous stomatitis in children is crucial for diagnosing Behçet's disease.
• Prompt diagnosis and management can prevent severe complications associated with systemic vasculitis.
• This case highlights the importance of a comprehensive evaluation for pediatric patients presenting with seemingly isolated oral ulcers.