Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis Latest News

A peer-reviewed study published recently provides an in-depth analysis of sarcoidosis, highlighting its variable course and the factors that influence disease severity.

About Sarcoidosis

• Sarcoidosis is a condition that causes your immune system to overreact and make lumps or nodules called granulomas. 
• A granuloma is an area of inflammation caused by your immune system. 
• It’s made up of a cluster of white blood cells that have been “walled off” from the rest of your body to try to protect you from something your immune system thought was harmful. 
• Granulomas are surrounded by fibrous (dense) tissue, which makes them feel hard and lumpy.
• Granulomas can be found almost anywhere in your body, but they’re most commonly found in your lungs or lymph nodes. 
• They also can occur in the eyes, skin, heart, and other organs.

‹ ›

Sarcoidosis Cause

• Experts don’t know the exact cause of sarcoidosis, but it’s likely a mix of genetic and environmental factors. 
• Some people appear to have gene changes that make them more likely to develop sarcoidosis. 
• The condition may then be triggered by bacteria, viruses, dust, or chemicals. 
• Their immune system overreacts to the trigger, causing inflammation that forms granulomas.

Sarcoidosis Symptoms

• Depending on location and size, granulomas can cause mild to severe symptoms or no symptoms at all. 
• Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, tender sores on your shins, eye pain, and redness. 
• Many cases go away on their own or with treatment, but sometimes it becomes a chronic condition.
• In some cases, they can turn into fibrosis, causing permanent lung scarring.

Sarcoidosis Treatment

• There is no cure for sarcoidosis, but most people do not need treatment. 
• Sarcoidosis may go away on its own. 
• Other people need treatment to lessen their body’s immune system response.
• Sometimes sarcoidosis can last for years and may cause organ damage.

Source: TOI