What it is
The cause is not fully understood, but it is thought to be an immune system problem and is more common in people from the Middle East, the Mediterranean and East Asia.
There is no cure. Treatment aims to control flare-ups and prevent damage, using creams, mouthwashes, steroids and medicines that calm the immune system. Eye involvement needs close specialist follow-up.
Common signs
- Repeated painful mouth ulcers
- Genital ulcers
- Red, painful eyes or blurred vision
- Skin spots and painful red lumps on the legs
- Joint pain and swelling
How it is usually diagnosed
- Diagnosis is based on the pattern of symptoms; there is no single test
- Eye examination by an ophthalmologist
- Blood tests to rule out other causes
- A skin prick (pathergy) test in some cases
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Photos and dates of ulcers and flare-ups
- Eye examination reports
- Rheumatology letters and treatment plans
- Blood test results while on immune-suppressing medicines
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which parts of my body are affected, and how will we monitor them?
- What should I do at the start of a flare-up?
- What tests do I need while on these medicines?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden loss of vision or a painful red eye
- A sudden severe headache, confusion or weakness: call 112
- Coughing up blood
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.