What is the simplest method to diagnose Behçet's disease?

Behcet's disease, also known as Behcet's syndrome, is a connective tissue disorder that may be related to genetic and infectious factors. Generally speaking, there is no single simplest method for diagnosing Behcet's disease. Diagnosis may require evaluation based on observation of oral ulcers, genital ulcers, skin manifestations, eye lesion examinations, and skin or mucosal biopsies. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and receive treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Observation of oral ulcers: One of the typical symptoms of Behcet's disease is recurrent oral ulcers. These ulcers are usually significantly painful and may appear singly or in multiples. Symptoms typically resolve spontaneously after 1–2 weeks, and ulcers generally do not leave scars. If oral ulcers recur frequently, particularly more than three times per year, Behcet's disease should be highly suspected.

2. Observation of genital ulcers: Patients with Behcet's disease may develop genital ulcers. These ulcers occur less frequently but are often associated with severe pain. They may appear on the glans penis, penis, or scrotum in males, or around the external genitalia and perianal area in females. The presence of such symptoms suggests an increased likelihood of Behcet's disease.

3. Observation of skin manifestations: Patients with Behcet's disease may also exhibit skin lesions such as erythema nodosum, papulopustular eruptions, or acne-like rashes, which may appear on the face, chest, or back. Additionally, a positive pathergy reaction (pathergy test) is a characteristic feature of Behcet's disease, where small vesicles or pustules may develop at the site of skin puncture or intravenous injection. The presence of such skin lesions may suggest Behcet's disease.

4. Eye lesion examination: Patients with Behcet's disease may develop ocular lesions, such as uveitis, which can cause symptoms including vision loss, photophobia, and tearing. Therefore, patients suspected of having Behcet's disease should promptly consult an ophthalmologist for an eye examination to rule out other ocular diseases.

5. Skin and mucosal biopsy: For patients presenting with skin lesions or oral ulcers, a skin or mucosal biopsy can aid in diagnosis. Histopathological examination may reveal signs of vasculitis, such as endothelial cell swelling and perivascular lymphocytic infiltration.

It is recommended that individuals suspected of having Behcet's disease seek timely medical attention. After undergoing relevant medical tests at a hospital, physicians will make a comprehensive diagnosis based on the patient's medical history and test results.