Life-threatening transient neonatal Behçet's disease

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Behçet's disease is a rare multisystem inflammatory disorder.
• Neonatal Behçet's disease is exceptionally rare, with limited documented cases.
• Maternal Behçet's disease is a potential risk factor for neonatal presentation.

Observation:

• A male neonate presented with severe, life-threatening complications including diarrhea, orogenital ulceration, vasculitic lesions, and respiratory arrest.
• Symptoms appeared within the first week of life.
• No infectious etiology was identified for the observed symptoms.

Findings:

• The neonate exhibited transient neonatal Behçet's disease, characterized by severe mucocutaneous and systemic manifestations.
• The infant responded dramatically to intravenous and oral corticosteroid therapy.
• Complete recovery was observed by eight weeks of age.

Implications:

• This case highlights the possibility of transient neonatal Behçet's disease presenting with severe, reversible complications.
• Early recognition and prompt steroid treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in affected neonates.
• The case underscores the importance of considering maternal Behçet's disease during pregnancy for potential neonatal risks.