Immunology of Behcet's Disease

Beh''s Disease (BD) is one of the most-studied systemic disorders characterized by an occlusive vasculopathy of multiple organs. The etiology and pathogenesis of BD are still unclear, but there is evidence for genetic, immunologic and infectious factors in the onset and throughout the course of the disease. This book summarizes our knowledge regarding the most important factors that induce or trigger BD. After an epidemiological overview, the clinical presentation of ocular and non-ocular symptoms of BD is summarized. The immunopathological changes reflect a chronic vasculitis of arterioles, venules, and capillaries. The book covers the role of T-cells, NK-T-cells, secreted cytokines, and neutrophils as well as immune reactions against various microbial heat shock proteins. It shows that the pathogenic gene involved in the development of BD is pinpointed to HLA-B51. It also discusses the treatment of BD, including anti-TNF-alpha-antibodies and interferon-alpha.