Sarcoidosis management

Sarcoidosis management

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of non-caseating granulomas that may affect multiple organs, most commonly the lungs, skin, eyes, lymph nodes, nervous system, joints, and heart.

Clinical presentation

The symptoms and signs depend on the organ or system affected.

Respiratory manifestations

• Rales/crepitations

Dermatological manifestations

• Macules

• Papules

• Plaques, which may arise as single isolated lesions

• Skin lesions frequently leave:

  • Scars

  • Pits

  • Pale depigmented areas

Neurological manifestations

• Nerve palsies

• Headache

• Ataxia

• Cognitive dysfunction

• Weakness

• Seizures

Ophthalmological manifestations

• Anterior uveitis

Cardiovascular manifestations

• Tachyarrhythmias

• Bradyarrhythmias

Musculoskeletal manifestations

• Polyarthritis

• Chronic arthritis

Hepatic manifestations

• Jaundice (rare)

Investigations

Laboratory investigations

• FBP

• ESR

• LFT

• RFT

• RF

• CRP

• Serum electrolytes

• Lumbar puncture (LP)

• Autoimmune profile

Histopathology

• Biopsy

Imaging and specialized investigations

• Chest X-ray (CXR)

• CT scan

• PET scan

• Fundoscopy

Pharmacological treatment

Corticosteroid therapy

• Prednisolone (PO) 1 mg/kg/day

Referral

Refer to a specialized centre for evaluation and management by an appropriate specialist, including:

• Physician

• Dermatologist

• Rheumatologist

• Pulmonologist