VASCULAR HEALTH IN BEHÇET’S DISEASE: THE ROLE OF UROTENSIN II AND SCLEROSTIN

Aim:Behçet’s disease (BD) is characterized by the presence of skin and mucosal lesions, systemic inflammation, and vasculitis. The objective of this study was to examine changes in urotensin II (UII) and sclerostin levels in patients with BD and to assess their correlation with atherosclerosis. Material and Methods:The study population comprised 32 patients with BD, 39 with systemic lupus erythematosus, and 30 healthy controls. A series of clinical examinations were conducted, and blood samples were obtained to analyze UII and sclerostin levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) was evaluated using Doppler ultrasonography. Results:UII levels were significantly elevated in the BD group compared with the other groups (p<0.001). Conversely, sclerostin levels were markedly diminished in the BD group (p<0.001). In the BD group, UII levels were positively correlated with cIMT (r=0.513, p<0.001), whereas sclerostin levels were negatively correlated with cIMT (r=-0.270, p=0.020). Conclusion:Elevated UII and reduced sclerostin levels are crucial biomarkers of atherosclerosis risk in individuals with BD. These findings help to elucidate the cardiovascular complications associated with BD.