DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Sarcoidosis
An inflammatory disease causing granulomas (clumps of inflammatory cells) to form in various organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. Can affect any organ system. Cause unknown. Affects approximately 1-40 per 100,000 people, more common in African Americans and Scandinavians. Often remits spontaneously.
2.0M
34
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Chest X-ray
- 2CT scan of chest
- 3PET scan
- 4Tissue biopsy (lung, lymph node, skin)
- 5Pulmonary function tests
- 6Blood tests (ACE level)
- 7Eye examination
- 8Echocardiogram
- 9Cardiac MRI
- 10Bronchoscopy with biopsy
Prognosis
Generally good. 60% achieve remission without treatment. 30% have chronic disease. 10% have progressive disease leading to organ damage. Mortality 1-5% (usually from cardiac or pulmonary complications). Lifelong monitoring for some. Quality of life good for most. Recurrence possible.
Prevention
- No known prevention
- Smoking cessation
- Avoid environmental triggers
- Early diagnosis and treatment
- Regular monitoring
- Genetic counseling not indicated
Research Status
Corticosteroids first-line for progressive disease. Methotrexate, azathioprine for steroid-sparing. TNF inhibitors (infliximab) for refractory cases. Observation for mild/asymptomatic disease. Treatment of organ-specific complications. Most require no treatment. Spontaneous remission common.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sarcoidosis
- https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/sarcoidosis
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.