Major vessel involvement in Behcet's disease: an update

Purpose of review Large vessel vasculitis occurs in a subgroup of patients with Behcet's disease who are at high risk for disease-related morbidity and mortality. Recognition of patients at risk, early detection of vasculitis, and aggressive treatment are essential for optimal care of these patients. We review the expanding knowledge on large vessel problems in Behcet's disease, highlighting recent contributions. Recent findings Vasculo-Behcet patients are at risk for multiple vessel-related complications including thromboses, stenoses, occlusions, and aneurysms. The primary reason for clot seems to be an inflammatory process in the vessel wall. Less invasive endovascular procedures are increasingly used to treat aneurysms in Behcet patients. Summary Because of earlier recognition, aggressive medical treatment, and novel surgical procedures, the morbidity and mortality of large vessel vasculitis in Behcet's disease are improving.