Common Femoral Vein Wall Thickness as a Diagnostic Marker for Behçet's Disease: A Case-Control Study

Background and Aims

Recent publications have highlighted the potential diagnostic value of measuring common femoral vein (CFV) wall thickness in Behçet's Disease (BD). The diagnosis of BD remains a clinical challenge. The objective of this study is to evaluate the utility of venous Doppler ultrasound measurement of CFV wall thickness as a diagnostic tool for BD and to differentiate it from healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

A total of 96 individuals were included: 48 patients with BD and 48 HCs. CFV wall thickness was measured bilaterally using venous Doppler ultrasound. Comparative statistical analyses were performed between groups, and diagnostic cutoff values were determined.

Results

Both right and left whole-wall thickness (WWT) of the CFV were significantly higher in the BD group compared to HCs (p < 0.001). A diagnostic cutoff value of ≥ 0.668 mm for CFV WWT effectively distinguished BD from HCs, with a sensitivity of 89.6% and specificity of 100%. Among BD patients, those with vascular involvement had notably thicker CFV walls. No significant correlations were observed with ocular, neurological, articular, or gastrointestinal involvement, nor with laboratory markers or most treatment modalities.

Conclusion

Ultrasound assessment of CFV wall thickness is a promising, noninvasive diagnostic tool that may aid in differentiating BD from healthy individuals. Its significant association with vascular involvement further supports its role as a potential marker of disease severity.