Evaluation of inferior vena cava wall thickness measured by transthoracic echocardiography as a marker of vascular involvement in Behçet's disease

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate inferior vena cava diameter (IVCD) and wall thickness (IVCWT) in patients with Behçet’s disease (BD) using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and to investigate their associations with disease activity and vascular involvement. Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study included 79 patients diagnosed with BD and 84 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. All TTE measurements, including IVCD and IVCWT, were performed during the study period using a standardized protocol. Disease activity was assessed using the Behçet’s Disease Current Activity Form (BDCAF). Subgroup analyses were conducted based on vascular involvement and other clinical characteristics. Results: IVCWT was slightly higher in patients with BD compared with healthy controls (2.35 ± 0.52 mm vs. 2.26 ± 0.57 mm). No meaningful association was identified between disease activity scores and IVC measurements. In contrast, (2.83 ± 0.60 mm vs. 2.28 ± 0.44 mm). Intra-observer reliability was excellent for both IVCWT (ICC = 0.93) and IVC diameter (ICC = 0.91). Conclusion: Increased IVCWT measured by transthoracic echocardiography may indicate vascular involvement in BD independently of overall disease activity. Given its non-invasive nature and high reproducibility, IVCWT could serve as a supportive parameter for identifying subclinical vascular inflammation and guiding individualized follow-up strategies.