American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary symptom associated with Behçet syndrome?

1. Recurrent headaches

2. Joint pain

3. Painful oral ulcers

4. Nausea and vomiting

The correct answer is: Painful oral ulcers

Behçet syndrome is primarily characterized by the presence of painful oral ulcers, which are often recurrent and can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected. These ulcers typically appear as shallow, painful lesions in the mouth, and their recurrent nature is a hallmark of the condition. In addition to oral ulcers, Behçet syndrome can also manifest with other symptoms such as genital ulcers, skin lesions, ocular inflammation, and systemic features affecting the joints and vascular system. However, the presence of painful oral ulcers is considered one of the key diagnostic criteria for Behçet syndrome and is often the first symptom to appear in many patients, making it a defining feature of the disease. The other options, while they may relate to symptoms experienced by individuals with different conditions or may occur less frequently in Behçet syndrome, do not encapsulate the primary symptom that is most indicative of this particular syndrome.