Sarcoidosis

Question 1

What is sarcoidosis?

Answer 1

systemic disorder of unknown cause, characterised by formation of non caseating granulomas

Question 2

Explain the aetiology of sarcoidosis

Answer 2

likely to be infectious origin

Question 3

List risk factors for sarcoidosis

Answer 3

Agricultural exposure
Insecticide exposure
Non smoker

Question 4

Describe epidemiology of sarcoidosis

Answer 4

Different pattern of disease in different areas
More in Northern Europe, USA and India
Greater in African descent people

Question 5

Describe the PC of sarcoidosis

Answer 5

Erythema nodosum on shins

SoB, wheeze, palpitations

Question 6

List signs of sarcoidosis

Answer 6

Erythema nodosum
Bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy on CXR
Bilateral calcification of mediastinal lymph nodes
If severe, fibrosis of lungs

Question 7

What investigations would you do for sarcoidosis?

Answer 7

Clinical - Sx etc
CXR
Histology

Question 8

What is a positive histological finding for sarcoidosis?

Answer 8

Non caseating granulomas

Question 9

What are 2 other DDx you would consider with sarcoidosis like PC?

Answer 9

TB and lymphoma

Question 10

How do you differentiate between TB and sarcoidosis?

Answer 10

CXR - TB has unilateral lymphadenopathy

Question 11

Describe Tx for sarcoidosis

Answer 11

Low dose prednisolone OR

hydroxychloroquine and immunosuppression eg methotrexate