Behçet's Disease: A Comprehensive Overview of Symptoms, Pathology, Genetics, and Treatment

Arbnora Batalli1, Thomas Liehr2, Gazmend Temaj3

  • 1Paediatric Department, University Clinical Center of Kosovo, Prishtina, Kosovo.

PubMed

Insights

Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder causing ulcers and systemic issues. Research explores its genetic links, pathology, and new treatments like biologics and microRNAs for better patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Behçet's disease (BD) is a multisystemic inflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent oral/genital ulcers, skin lesions, and vasculitis.
  • It predominantly affects populations along the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and East Asian regions.
  • Pathology involves neutrophil infiltration and endothelial damage, leading to complications like thrombosis and aneurysms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of Behçet's disease (BD).
  • To examine symptoms, pathology, genetic factors, and treatment strategies for BD.
  • To highlight emerging research, including the role of microRNAs in BD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on Behçet's disease.
  • Analysis of pathological findings, genetic predispositions (HLA-B*51), and environmental factors.
  • Evaluation of current and novel therapeutic approaches, including biologics and microRNAs.

Main Results:

  • BD exhibits significant genetic influence, particularly the HLA-B*51 allele.
  • Treatment involves corticosteroids, TNFα inhibitors, and biologics to manage inflammation.
  • MicroRNAs show potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in BD.

Conclusions:

  • Behçet's disease requires comprehensive management due to its complex multisystemic nature.
  • Optimizing treatment strategies and understanding genetic/environmental factors are crucial for improving outcomes.
  • Further research into microRNAs offers promising avenues for BD diagnosis and therapy.

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