Association between Serum α-Klotho Levels and Behçet Disease

Background Endothelial dysfunction (ED) has a well-known role in promoting vascular inflammation in Behçet disease (BD). α-klotho is involved in regulation of endothelial function, and its reduction has been reported to be associated with ED. Objective To assess serum α-klotho in patients with BD, compared with healthy control individuals. Methods In a cross-sectional study, 55 patients with BD and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled, and their serum levels of α-klotho were measured. Results Common clinical symptoms in patients with BD were oral aphthous ulcers, uveitis, and genital ulcers. Median (IQR) serum α-klotho levels in the BD and control groups were 0.30 (0.20–0.70) and 1.00 (0.70–2.52) ng/mL, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (P = .005). No significant correlation was observed between serum α-klotho and age (r = 0.194; P = .14). Serum α-klotho levels in patients with uveitis were significantly lower. Conclusion α-klotho may have a role in the pathogenesis of ED and is a potential biomarker for uveitis in BD.