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A small retrospective study presented at the Society for Pediatric Dermatology annual meeting found that colchicine, an anti-inflammatory drug commonly used to treat gout, is an effective treatment for complex aphthous stomatitis (CAS) in children. CAS is typically treated with topical supportive care, which is often ineffective. The study reviewed the charts of 20 children diagnosed with CAS who were treated with colchicine between 2000 and 2023. Of the 14 patients with follow-up data, 86% experienced symptom improvement, with 36% achieving a complete response and 57% achieving a partial response. Side effects were reported in 64% of patients, including diarrhea, nausea, and constipation. The study suggests that colchicine should be considered as a treatment option for pediatric patients with refractory CAS. [Extracted from the article]

The British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) and the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) have collaborated to develop the first British guidelines for managing Behçet's disease. These guidelines will be regularly updated as new evidence emerges. With over 90 recommendations, the guidelines aim to cover all manifestations of the disease and provide practical advice for managing various symptoms. Raising awareness of Behçet's disease is crucial for improving its management, as diagnosis can be challenging and often takes up to 10 years. The guidelines emphasize multidisciplinary management, involving specialists from various fields. Treatment recommendations are based on the available evidence, although the evidence base for Behçet's disease is limited. The guidelines also highlight the need for future research, including clinical trials in children and young people, and the establishment of a national registry. The BSR and BAD's guideline development processes are accredited by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in England. [Extracted from the article]