Inappropriate Vascular Response in Patients With Behcet Syndrome

Behcet syndrome (BS) is an uncommon systemic vasculitis, with limited understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment options are nonspecific. Associated morbidity is higher in men, specifically those affected by vascular, neuronal, or ocular involvement. Systemic veins and pulmonary arteries are predominantly involved, both of which carrying deoxygenated blood at low pressure, presenting as occlusive (thrombotic/stenotic) or aneurysmal lesions. Arteries are also affected by similar lesions, because of inflammation of the vasa-vasorum resulting in medial defragmentation of the vessel wall. Stenotic lesions are considered benign, whereas aneurysmal change can be progressive and rupture can be fatal. Stenotic lesions are thought to be better treated with stenting, as surgical repair can result in aneurysmal change at the site of vascular injury.1 A 32-year-old male, known to have BS with the presence of antiphospholipid antibody, multiple episodes of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary emboli but no …