Sarcoidosis (sarcoid)
About Sarcoidosis (sarcoid)
A disease characterized by tiny clumps of inflammatory cells in different areas of the body. These clumps of inflammation are called granulomas. The sarcoid granulomas can affect any part of the body with the most common being the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes and skin. The cause of the disorder is not known. Women, black Americans, and having a family history of sarcoid increase the chance of acquiring the disease. Many patients do not have any symptoms and the disease is discovered after they obtain a chest x-ray for an unrelated reason.Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the extent of the disease and the area affected. Many patients do not have symptoms. Symptoms may include: persistent cough, shortness of breath, a vague feeling of discomfort and fatigue, fever, weight loss, small red bumps on the skin, red watery eyes, swollen joints.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. An x-ray or CT scan may be done. The diagnosis is confirmed by performing a biopsy of an affected area usually the skin, a lymph node, eye or lung.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Many patients do not need treatment. If the disease begins to progress the healthcare provider may recommend medications including: steroids (prednisone), immunosuppressive medications (methotrexate/Trexall, azathioprine/Imuran), anti-malarial medications (hydroxychloroquine/Plaquenil), and/or anti-tumor necrosis factor (infliximab/Remicade). Lung or liver transplant may be needed for severe disease.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Rheumatology · Pulmonology · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Sarcoidosis (sarcoid).