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Sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is a multisystem disease that results in the microscopic deposition of "granulomas" (scar-like tissue) that can interfere with organ function. This disease is probably genetic and results from alterations in immune system function. Organ involvement is usually asymptomatic (no symptoms), and the disease frequently regresses (disappears) spontaneously. In some cases, it may proceed to a more chronic state of fibrosis, with severe functional impairment of various organs. Characteristically, most patients are without symptoms. The disease is often detected by means of a chest x-ray as increased nodularity or infiltrate on the chest film. Other symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, and arthritis (joint pain and swelling). The lungs are the most frequently involved organ, where the eyes, nervous system, heart, kidneys, bones, and joints can also be affected. Physician diagnosis many times can be made with a high degree of certainty after the chest x-ray and review of the physical findings. Often, the diagnosis will be confirmed through a tissue biopsy. Using the bronchoscope and trans-bronchial biopsy, a specimen of lung tissue can confirm the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Treatment is with corticosteroids (Prednisone). Most patients with sarcoidosis show spontaneous, total remission of disease in a period up to 3 years. The Pulmonologist is the expert in the management of this multisystem disease.
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