Behçet’s Disease Presenting with  Recurrent Vulvar Abscesses, Oral Ulcers, and  Skin Pustules in the Philippines

Ramon B.  Larrazabal Jr.; Harold Henrison C.  Chiu; Cherie  Ocampo-Cervantes

doi:10.47895/amp.vi0.3346

Ramon B. Larrazabal Jr. Division of Medical Oncology; Department of Medicine; Philippine General Hospital; University of the Philippines Manila https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4538-416X
Harold Henrison C. Chiu Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism; Department of Medicine; Philippine General Hospital; University of the Philippines Manila https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2021-7843
Cherie Ocampo-Cervantes Division of Allergy and Immunology; Department of Medicine; Philippine General Hospital; University of the Philippines Manila

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47895/amp.vi0.3346

Keywords: Behçet's syndrome, ulcer, vasculitis

Abstract

Behçet's disease (BD) is a systemic vasculitis characterized by recurrent acute vascular inflammation. There is currently limited epidemiological data in Southeast Asia. We discuss a 26-year-old woman who came to our institution for recurrent vulvar abscesses for a year. Physical examination showed labial, tongue, and vulvar ulcers. Pathergy test was negative and biopsy done were unremarkable . We diagnosed her clinically as a case of Behçet’s disease. We started her on colchicine 0.6 mg once daily and educated her on skin, oral, and perineal hygiene. On follow-up after one month, she noted resolution of her lesions. However, symptoms recurred in the last three months after discontinuing treatment. We used telemedicine to communicate due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown, advising her to continue her medication. Timely diagnosis is essential in order to provide symptomatic relief and enhance patient education.