Sarcoidosis Key Overview

The sarcoidosis disease is an inflammatory process whereby groups of immune cells known as granulomas develop in various body organs, the lungs being the most common. The precise etiology is not known, although genetic predisposition, immune overactivity, as well as environmental factors are involved. Granulomas can interfere with the work of an organ and bring about complications when left untreated.

Symptoms

• Lungs: Continuous cough, dyspnea, pain in the chest.
• Skin: Rashes, nodules.
• Eyes: Redness, blurred vision.
• General: Fatigue, weight loss.

There is a group of patients, who are asymptomatic and are diagnosed incidentally.

Organ-Specific Effects

• Lungs: Pulmonary fibrosis is a risk factor, which results in decreased capacity.
• Heart: Can lead to arrhythmia or heart failure.
• Nervous system: Could cause nerve damage or seizure.
• Skin and eyes: Have to be cared about as early as possible to prevent irrevocable damages.

Diagnosis

• Imaging: Granulomas are identified with the help of chest X-rays and CT scans.
• Biopsy: Confirms non-caseating granuloma, which separates sarcoidosis among others.
• Examination: Finding Blood tests and pulmonary activity tests monitor the disease.

Treatment

• Mild cases: Non-pharmacological observation.
• Average to acute conditions: Steroids to suppress inflammation.
• Steroid-resistant: Immunosuppressives such as methotrexate; anti-rheumatic biologics.
• Goal: Symptom management, prevention of organ damage, and quality of life.

Prognosis

Outcomes vary. Most patients then recover or stay unchanged and some become chronic or permanently damaged by the organ involved. Immediate treatment and follow up are the key to improved long term outcomes.