INTESTINE Vol.18 No.6(7)

Theme Intestinal Behçet's disease and simple ulcer of the intestine
Title Lower gastrointestinal lesions associated with intestinal Behçet's disease and simple ulcers
Publish Date 2014/11
Author Kiyonori Kobayashi Department of Research and Development Center for New Medical Frontiers, Kitasato University School of Medicine
Author Kana Kawagishi Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine
Author Shouhei Ooka Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine
Author Kaoru Yokoyama Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine
Author Miwa Sada Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine
Author Wasaburo Koizumi Department of Gastroenterology, Kitasato University School of Medicine
[ Summary ] Lower intestinal lesions associated with intestinal Behçet's disease and simple ulcers are classically characterized by large, punched-out ulcers (typical lesions) arising in the ileocecum. Intestinal Behçet's disease may also be associated with multiple ulcers in parts of the lower gastrointestinal tract other than the ileocecum or with longitudinally oriented or ulcerative colitis-like intestinal lesions (non-typical lesions). The distribution and morphological characteristics of these lesions are more diverse than those associated with simple ulcers. Intestinal lesions demonstrate a relatively high risk of progression, leading to intestinal complications such as strictures and fistula. Close follow ups and caution are therefore required. Differentiation of intestinal Behçet's disease from simple ulcers is difficult with gastrointestinal series or endoscopic examination if only typical lesions are evaluated. Detailed examination of parts of the gastrointestinal tract other than the ileocecum and the confirmation of extraintestinal lesions are mandatory for accurate diagnosis.
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