Annabelle A Okada1. 1. Department of Ophthalmology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. aokada@po.iijnet.or.jp
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarize general concepts of Behçet's disease, as well as present recent scientific developments in delineating the pathogenesis and treatment of this disorder. RECENT FINDINGS: Large, long-term follow-up studies on patients with Behçet's disease have shown improved visual outcomes in recent years when compared with decades ago, presumably due to the more aggressive use of immunosuppressive agents. Increased T-helper cell type 1 activity and increased hypercoagulability continue to be a focus of research into the pathogenesis of the disease. Advanced oxidation protein products and a Behçet's disease activity index may be useful tools for following disease activity. Finally, studies of new treatment modalities, particularly infliximab, interferon-alpha and granulocytapheresis, have reported encouraging results. SUMMARY: Historically a scourge among uveitic disorders, there is new hope for improved long-term visual outcomes in patients with Behçet's disease based on recent scientific advances.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarize general concepts of Behçet's disease, as well as present recent scientific developments in delineating the pathogenesis and treatment of this disorder. RECENT FINDINGS: Large, long-term follow-up studies on patients with Behçet's disease have shown improved visual outcomes in recent years when compared with decades ago, presumably due to the more aggressive use of immunosuppressive agents. Increased T-helper cell type 1 activity and increased hypercoagulability continue to be a focus of research into the pathogenesis of the disease. Advanced oxidation protein products and a Behçet's disease activity index may be useful tools for following disease activity. Finally, studies of new treatment modalities, particularly infliximab, interferon-alpha and granulocytapheresis, have reported encouraging results. SUMMARY: Historically a scourge among uveitic disorders, there is new hope for improved long-term visual outcomes in patients with Behçet's disease based on recent scientific advances.
Authors: Kenneth T Calamia; Floranne C Wilson; Murat Icen; Cynthia S Crowson; Sherine E Gabriel; Hilal Maradit Kremers Journal: Arthritis Rheum Date: 2009-05-15