What Is Behcet's Disease?
Behcet's disease is a chronic condition that causes canker sores or ulcers in the mouth and on the genitals, and inflammation in parts of the eye. In some people, Behcet's disease also results in:
- Arthritis (swollen, painful, stiff joints)
- Skin problems
- Inflammation of the digestive tract, brain, and spinal cord.
Behcet's (BAY-sets) disease was first described in 1937 by Dr. Hulusi Behçet, a dermatologist in Turkey.
Who Does Behcet's Disease Affect?
Behcet's disease is common in the Middle East, Asia, and Japan; it is rare in the United States. In Middle Eastern and Asian countries, Behcet's disease affects more men than women. In the United States, the opposite is true. Behcet's disease tends to develop in people in their 20s or 30s, but people of all ages can develop the condition.
Cause of Behcet's Disease
Scientists do know that nearly all of the
symptoms of Behcet's disease are due to an inflammation of the blood vessels, but they aren't sure what causes this inflammation. These scientists also know that Behcet's disease is not contagious, meaning it is not spread from one person to another.
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