Ophthalmic features of Behçet syndrome

Severe uveitis occurs relatively commonly in Behçet syndrome. It is usually bilateral and can affect both anterior and posterior chambers of the eye. Retinal vasculitis, vascular occlusion and optic neuritis occur less frequently. If left untreated, ocular inflammation may irreversibly impair vision and progress to blindness. Refer patients with Behçet-related eye disease urgently to an ophthalmologist to reduce the risk of visual loss.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratouveitis is a differential diagnosis for uveitis associated with Behçet syndrome that must be actively excluded. Conjunctivitis, scleritis, episcleritis and sicca syndrome are uncommon in Behçet syndrome, and should increase the suspicion for an alternative diagnosis.