DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Pulmonary Disease

Pulmonary Sarcoidosis

MODERATE

A multisystem inflammatory disease characterized by formation of non-caseating granulomas, most commonly affecting the lungs and lymph nodes. Of unknown cause, thought to involve abnormal immune response to environmental triggers in genetically susceptible individuals.

Global Affected

2.0M

Countries

20

Symptoms

Dyspnea
Dry cough
Fatigue
Chest discomfort
Weight loss
Fever
Night sweats
Erythema nodosum

Treatment Options

Observation (asymptomatic cases)
Corticosteroids (prednisone)
Methotrexate
Azathioprine
Mycophenolate mofetil
Infliximab or adalimumab
Hydroxychloroquine (for skin involvement)

Risk Factors

1African or Northern European ancestry
2Age 20-40 years
3Female sex
4Family history
5Certain HLA types
6Environmental exposures (mold, pesticides)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Chest X-ray (bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy)
  • 2High-resolution CT
  • 3PET scan
  • 4Tissue biopsy (non-caseating granulomas)
  • 5Pulmonary function tests
  • 6Serum ACE level
  • 7Calcium levels

Prognosis

Variable; 60% have spontaneous remission. 10-30% develop chronic disease. 5% progress to pulmonary fibrosis. Higher morbidity in African Americans. Overall 1-5% mortality.

Prevention

  • No known prevention
  • Avoid potential environmental triggers
  • Regular monitoring for progression

Research Status

Often resolves spontaneously without treatment. Corticosteroids for symptomatic or progressive disease. Immunosuppressants for steroid-resistant cases. TNF inhibitors for refractory disease.

Sources

  • https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/sarcoidosis
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.