What is sarcoidosis?

  Sarcoidosis is a multisystem disease characterized by the formation of granulomas, or small clusters of immune cells, in various organs of the body. It most often affects the lungs, but can affect any part of the body, including the skin, eyes, liver, heart and nervous system. This article will provide detailed information on sarcoidosis.

   What is sarcoidosis?

  Sarcoidosis is a disease characterized by the formation of granulomas, which are small clusters of immune cells, in various parts of the body. The disease most often affects the lungs, but can also affect other organs, such as the skin, eyes, liver, heart and nervous system. The incidence of sarcoidosis varies by ethnic group and geographic region.

   Symptoms of sarcoidosis

  Symptoms of sarcoidosis vary and often depend on the organs involved in the disease process. Many people with sarcoidosis have little or no symptoms, while others may develop symptoms slowly over time.

  The most common symptoms of sarcoidosis include:

• Cough

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Weight loss

• Pain and swelling in the joints

• Skin rash

• Visual disturbances

  
  

   Causes of sarcoidosis

  The exact cause of sarcoidosis is not known. Much evidence suggests that it may result from an overreaction of the immune system to an unknown agent, such as a viral or bacterial infection, or exposure to certain environmental substances. The disease is more common in certain ethnic groups, suggesting that genetics may also play a role.

   Treatment of sarcoidosis

  Treatment of sarcoidosis depends on the severity of symptoms and the organs involved in the disease process. Sometimes sarcoidosis can resolve spontaneously without treatment. In other cases, treatment is directed at controlling symptoms, preventing complications and improving the function of organs involved in the disease.

  Treatment may include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids, which can help reduce symptoms and prevent further organ damage.

• Immunosuppressive drugs, which can be used when corticosteroids are not effective or cause unacceptable side effects.

• Antimicrobial drugs, which are sometimes used to treat sarcoidosis, although it is unclear whether a bacterial infection is the cause of the disease.

• Oxygen therapy, which may be needed in people with advanced pulmonary sarcoidosis.

  
  

  Caring for a patient with sarcoidosis often requires a team approach, with different specialists depending on the symptoms and organs involved in the disease.

  In summary, sarcoidosis is a multisystem disease that can affect many different organs in the body, although the lungs are most commonly affected. Although the cause of sarcoidosis is unknown, treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing complications and improving organ function. If you have any symptoms suggestive of sarcoidosis, consult your doctor.