Surgical implications of Behcet's disease
L. L. Ketch, C. A. Buerk and D. Liechty
Behcet's disease, though originally described as a triad of oral and
genital aphthous ulcers and inflammatory ocular lesions, has had several
new elements added to its description. The updated syndrome now includes
gastrointestinal (GI) involvement as well as polyarthritis, neuritis,
myocarditis, and glomerulonephritis. Of particular importance to the
surgeon are the GI manifestations that include hemorrhage and perforation.
A review of the literature indicates that the GI manifestations of Behcet's
disease are not uncommon and, though usually mild, may necessitate surgical
intervention. Our experience with a patient with GI hemorrhage and
subsequent perforation underlines the occasional urgent complications of
this disease.
