American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which treatment options are commonly used for Behçet syndrome with oral/genital ulcers?

1. High-dose glucocorticoids only

2. Colchicine or low-dose prednisone

3. Immunosuppressive agents exclusively

4. Radiation therapy

The correct answer is: Colchicine or low-dose prednisone

Behçet syndrome is a systemic vasculitis characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcers, as well as eye inflammation and other systemic manifestations. The management of this condition often focuses on alleviating symptoms and controlling inflammation. Colchicine is an effective treatment option for Behçet syndrome, particularly useful in reducing oral and genital ulcerations. It is well-regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties and has an established role in managing the mucocutaneous symptoms of the disease. Additionally, low-dose prednisone can help manage flare-ups and control symptoms while minimizing the side effects associated with higher doses of glucocorticoids. High-dose glucocorticoids, while sometimes used in severe cases or acute exacerbations, are not the first-line approach due to the potential for significant side effects with prolonged use. Immunosuppressive agents can be important for managing more severe or systemic manifestations of Behçet syndrome but are typically not the sole focus for treating mucocutaneous symptoms such as ulcers. Radiation therapy is not a standard treatment modality for Behçet syndrome and is not indicated for the management of ulcers associated with this condition. Thus, the option of colchicine or low-dose prednisone aligns well with the standard clinical practice for managing oral and genital ulcers