[Ulcerations of the extremities: An unusual manifestation of Behçet's disease]

Abstract

Background: Although cutaneous and mucosal involvement is a major manifestation in Behçet's disease, ulcerated lesions of the extremities are exceptional and poorly known.

Case report: A 57-year-old male patient was diagnosed 7 years ago with Behçet's disease. This diagnosis was made in the presence of recurrent bipolar aphtous ulcers, pseudofolliculitis lesions and retinal vasculitis. After having been lost to follow up for two years, during which his treatment was discontinued, he presented centimetric necrotic ulcerations of the fingers of the hand and of the right big toe. The biopsy revealed leucocytoclastic and necrotizing vasculitis. The patient improved with antibiotic, oral corticosteroids, colchicine and local care.

Conclusion: Linking extremity ulcers with Behçet's disease, though sometimes difficult, is essential for proper management.

Keywords: Aphtose; Aphtous ulcers; Behçet's disease; Cutaneous ulceration; Cutaneous vasculitis; Maladie de Behçet; Therapeutics; Thérapeutique; Ulcération cutanée; Vascularite cutanée.