Sarcoidosis

Question 1

What is Sarcoidosis?

Answer 1

• Multi system disorder of unknown aetiology characterised by presence of non-caseating granulomas

Question 2

What are the different organs and regions involved in Sarcoidosis?

Answer 2

=> Lymph nodes
- Hilar and mediastinal nodes

=> Lungs
- lung fibrosis

=> Skin

• Lupus pernio on face and trunk
• Erythema nodosum

=> Eyes

• Anterior uveitis, causes a red painful eye with photophobia
• Posterior uveitis, floaters and blurring vision

=> Lacrimal and salivary glands
- Dry eyes and dry mouth

=> Nervous system

• Facial nerve palsy
• Diabetes Insipidus due to destruction of ADH producing neurones

Question 3

What are the 2 forms of Sarcoidosis?

Answer 3

• Acute

- Chronic

Question 4

What are the signs of Acute and Chronic Sarcoidosis?

Answer 4

=> Acute:

• Bi lateral lymphadenopathy
• Anterior uveitis
• Facial nerve palsy

=> Chronic:

• Permanent end organ damage
• Lupus pernio, pulmonary fibrosis and posterior uveitis

Question 5

What are the investigations in suspected Sarcoidosis?

Answer 5

=> ESR - Elevated

=> Hypercalcaemia

=> ACE levels high

=> BIOPSY

There is no definitive 1st line investigation used