Overview of Behçet syndrome
Behçet syndrome is a systemic vasculitis of unknown aetiology that affects arteries and veins of all sizes, associated with manifestations in the skin, mucosa, eyes, joints, gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system. Vascular complications (thromboses and aneurysms) are characteristic of the syndrome. The syndrome has a high prevalence in the Middle East and far-East Asia, and geographical differences in disease expression exist.
The onset of Behçet syndrome is most common in people aged 20 to 40 years and it affects males and females equally; however, males tend to have a more severe disease course. Disease severity commonly decreases over time.