A case of possible Behçet's disease, preceded by recurrent knee arthropathy for 5 years, effectively treated with oral colchicine

Abstract

We report a case of possible Behçet's disease (BD) preceded by arthropathy for 5 years. A 29-year-old man experienced right knee swelling and pain since April 1999. Thorough examinations were performed, yet a diagnosis was not established. In December 2004 he experienced recurrent aphtha, following folliculitis-like skin lesions. A human leukocyte antigen examination revealed a positive B51 allele and his illness was diagnosed as possible Behçet disease. Colchicine was administered and his symptoms were ameliorated.

Key words::

• Arthropathy
• Behçet's disease (BD)
• Colchicine
• HLA-B51
• Osteonecrosis