Sarcoidosis

Question 1

Definition of Sarcoidosis

Answer 1

Sarcoidosis is a condition in which abnormal collections of inflammatory cells, known as granulomas, develop in different organs of the body. It primarily affects the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, and eyes, but can also involve other organs such as the liver, heart, nervous system, and joints.

Question 2

Causes of Sarcoidosis

Answer 2

The exact cause of sarcoidosis is unknown. It is believed to involve an abnormal immune response triggered by an unidentified antigen or environmental factors in individuals with genetic predisposition. Factors that may contribute to the development of sarcoidosis include:

Genetic factors: Certain genes may increase the susceptibility to sarcoidosis.
Environmental factors: Exposure to certain substances or infectious agents may play a role, although no specific cause has been identified.

Question 3

Diagnosis of Sarcoidosis

Answer 3

Medical history and physical examination: Evaluating symptoms, organ involvement, and overall health.

Chest X-ray or CT scan: These imaging tests help identify lung involvement and assess the severity of the disease.

Biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken from affected organs (such as the lungs, skin, or lymph nodes) to examine under a microscope for the presence of granulomas.

Blood tests: These may include tests to evaluate organ function, measure markers of inflammation, and exclude other conditions.

Question 4

Symptoms of Sarcoidosis

Answer 4

Fatigue and malaise
Shortness of breath and cough
Chest pain or discomfort
Skin rash or lesions
Enlarged lymph nodes
Joint pain and swelling
Eye inflammation (uveitis)
Cardiac symptoms (such as palpitations or abnormal heart rhythms)

Question 5

Treatment of Sarcoidosis

Answer 5

Corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation and are often the first-line treatment for sarcoidosis.

Immunosuppressive agents: If corticosteroids are ineffective or not well-tolerated, other medications that suppress the immune response may be used.

Other medications: Certain medications may be used to manage specific symptoms or complications of sarcoidosis, such as skin lesions, joint pain, or eye inflammation.

Question 6

Complications of Sarcoidosis

Answer 6

Pulmonary fibrosis: In some cases, sarcoidosis can cause scarring in the lungs, leading to lung function impairment.

Eye complications: Sarcoidosis can cause uveitis, glaucoma, or other eye-related problems that can affect vision.

Cardiac complications: Rarely, sarcoidosis can affect the heart, leading to heart rhythm abnormalities, heart failure, or other cardiac issues.

Neurological complications: Sarcoidosis can affect the nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms such as seizures, facial paralysis, or sensory changes.

Skin complications: Skin involvement in sarcoidosis can lead to disfiguring skin lesions or scarring.