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Sarcoidosis

A granulomatous inflammatory disease primarily affecting the lungs but able to involve many other organs.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Sarcoidosis?

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease in which inflammatory nodules called non-caseating granulomas accumulate in various tissues of the body. The lungs and mediastinal lymph nodes are most often affected; however, skin, eyes, heart, liver, and the nervous system can also be involved.

The exact cause is unknown; an abnormal immune response to environmental or infectious triggers is suspected. It usually presents between ages 20-40 and is more common in individuals of African or Northern European descent.

About 60-70% of cases regress spontaneously without treatment. Corticosteroid therapy is initiated when symptoms persist or there is risk of organ failure.

Symptoms

Cough (dry, chronic)
Shortness of breath
Fatigue and weakness
Fever and night sweats
Skin rash (erythema nodosum, lupus pernio)
Eye redness and pain (uveitis)
Joint pain and swollen lymph nodes

Risk Factors

Aged 20-40
African or Northern European ancestry
Female sex (slight predominance)
Family history of sarcoidosis
Certain occupational and environmental exposures (agricultural dust, metal dust)
Use of immune-modulating medications

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy is detected on chest X-ray
  • When chronic cough and shortness of breath occur together
  • When eye complaints and lung findings appear together
  • Urgent cardiology evaluation for cardiac involvement (palpitations, syncope)
  • Long-term follow-up planning if corticosteroid therapy will be initiated

Treatment Methods

01
Observation in mild cases (spontaneous regression expected)
02
Prednisolone in symptomatic cases or those at risk of organ failure
03
Methotrexate or azathioprine during steroid tapering
04
Anti-TNF therapies (infliximab) in refractory sarcoidosis
05
Specialist consultation in eye and cardiac involvement
06
Regular pulmonary function testing, eye examinations, and ECG follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.