Abstract

Background: We are continually learning how to best manage patients testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 [coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)]. This is particularly challenging in rare autoimmune conditions, where immune system dysfunction, whether by disease or treatment, has the potential to impact on the course of COVID-19 in several ways.
Case Presentation: We present the case of a 52-year-old female with Behçet’s Disease, treated by immunosuppressive drugs, who tested positive for COVID-19 during the first month of the pandemic in the United Kingdom. In this case a multidisciplinary team approach, involving gynecological, rheumatological, microbiological, and respiratory teams was essential in ensuring the best outcome for the patient.
Conclusion: Our patient had a favorable outcome; she did not require intensive care admission and has recovered. This case supports the hypothesis that the chronic immunosuppression may confer a degree of protection against severe COVID-19 disease, potentially by mitigating the pro- inflammatory cytokine responsible for the respiratory failure seen in severe cases of the disease.

Key words: Case report, Behcet's Disease, COVID-19, immunosuppression, autoimmune disease, multidisciplinary team