Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis: Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

The following symptoms and complaints may indicate sarcoidosis: Acute sarcoidosis Leading symptoms Arthritis (inflammation of the joint) – typically affecting the ankle joint Erythema nodosum* (synonyms: nodular erythema, dermatitis contusiformis, erythema contusiforme; plural: erythemata nodosa) (25% of cases) – granulomatous inflammation of the subcutis (subcutaneous fat tissue), also known as panniculitis, and a pressure-dolent (painful) … Sarcoidosis: Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

Sarcoidosis: Causes

Pathogenesis (disease development) The etiology of sarcoidosis is unclear. A genetic predisposition is assumed. Histologic workup of biopsies (tissue samples) reveals epithelioid cell granulomas with Langhans giant cells. These partly contain so-called Schaumann and asteroid bodies. However, these findings are not specific for sarcoidosis. Etiology (Causes) Biographic Causes Genetic burden from parents, grandparents Genetic risk … Sarcoidosis: Causes

Sarcoidosis: Or something else? Differential Diagnosis

Respiratory System (J00-J99) Pulmonary fibrosis – connective tissue remodeling of the lungs leading to functional impairment. Pneumoconioses – lung changes that can occur as a result of inhaling dust; e.g., asbestosis (asbestos), silicosis (quartz dust lung disease), berylliosis (beryllium). Infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99). HIV infection – histologic picture shows findings similar to sarcoidosis. Ornithosis … Sarcoidosis: Or something else? Differential Diagnosis

Sarcoidosis: Complications

The following are the most important diseases or complications that may be contributed to by sarcoidosis: Respiratory system (J00-J99) Bronchiectasis (synonym: bronchiectasis)-permanent irreversible saccular or cylindrical dilatation of the bronchi (medium-sized airways) that may be congenital or acquired; symptoms: chronic cough with “mouthful expectoration” (large-volume triple-layered sputum: foam, mucus, and pus), fatigue, weight loss, and … Sarcoidosis: Complications

Sarcoidosis: Classification

International staging of sarcoidosis according to Scadding (1967). Stage Radiological changes Frequency at diagnosis 0 Normal findings: unremarkable thorax (chest) with extrapulmonary (“outside the lung”) involvement 10 % I Bihilary lymphadenopathy (swelling of lymph nodes on both sides of the lung root; 70% of cases are reversible!) 50 % II Biiliary lymphadenopathy + incipient lung … Sarcoidosis: Classification

Sarcoidosis: Examination

A comprehensive clinical examination is the basis for selecting further diagnostic steps: General physical examination – including blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, body weight, body height; further: Inspection (viewing) of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae (white part of the eye). [Erythema nodosum (nodular erythema), localization: both extensor sides of the lower leg, on the … Sarcoidosis: Examination

Sarcoidosis: Test and Diagnosis

1st order laboratory parameters – obligatory laboratory tests. Small blood count Differential blood count Inflammatory parameters – CRP (C-reactive protein) or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) [ESR: ↑ in acute course]. Serum calcium Calcium in urine Gamma globulins (IgG) [IgG ↑ in about 50% of cases]. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Activity parameters such as: S-IL-2R (interleukin-2 receptor) … Sarcoidosis: Test and Diagnosis

Sarcoidosis: Drug Therapy

Therapy goals Pain relief in arthritic complaints Stabilization of lung function Therapy recommendations Analgesics (painkillers) or anti-inflammatories/drugs that inhibit inflammatory processes (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), e.g., diclofenac, ibuprofen. To stabilize lung function: First-line agents: nonspecific immunosuppression with prednisolone (steroid therapy* ); these should be used for ≥ type II (with worsening pulmonary function). High disease … Sarcoidosis: Drug Therapy

Sarcoidosis: Diagnostic Tests

Obligatory medical device diagnostics. X-ray of the thorax (radiographic thorax/chest), in two planes. Computed tomography of the thorax/chest (thoracic CT). Optional medical device diagnostics – depending on the results of the medical history, physical examination, laboratory diagnostics and mandatory medical device diagnostics – for differential diagnostic clarification. Pulmonary function testing-serial spirometry, particularly forced vital capacity … Sarcoidosis: Diagnostic Tests

Sarcoidosis: Medical History

Medical history (history of illness) represents an important component in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Family history What is the general health of your family members? Are there any diseases in your family that are common? Are there any hereditary diseases in your family? Social anamnesis Current medical history/systemic medical history (somatic and psychological complaints). What … Sarcoidosis: Medical History