Biologic treatments in Behçet's disease.
Fatma Alibaz-Öner1, Haner Direskeneli1
1Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Marmara University School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey.
European Journal of Rheumatology
|March 9, 2021
Summary
Behçet's disease (BD) management is evolving. Biologic therapies targeting specific pathways show promise for severe cases, but more research is needed to confirm their long-term efficacy and safety.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Behçet's disease (BD) poses significant health risks, particularly vascular and ocular complications.
- Standard immunosuppressive treatments are insufficient for some patients, leading to disease relapses and damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding and emerging biologic treatments for Behçet's disease.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of biologic agents in managing major organ involvement in BD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on biologic treatments for Behçet's disease.
- Analysis of data from large series and clinical observations of biologic agent use.
Main Results:
- Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors and interferon-α are effective for refractory ocular, neurologic, vascular, and gastrointestinal involvement.
- Anakinra, ustekinumab, IL-1 inhibitors, and tocilizumab show potential for mucocutaneous and ocular manifestations.
Conclusions:
- Biologic therapies offer new avenues for treating severe Behçet's disease, especially major organ involvement.
- Further randomized controlled trials are essential to establish the long-term efficacy, safety, and optimal use of biologics in BD.
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