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Sarcoidosis
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What Is It?
What Are the Symptoms?
What Causes It?
How Is It Diagnosed?
Treatment Options
Who Is At Risk?
Resources and Suggestions
More Information About Sarcoidosis
What Is It?
Sarcoidosis (SAR-coy-DOH-sis) is an inflammatory disease characterized by granulomas
(small rounded outgrowths made up of blood vessels, cells and connective tissues) that can
produce many different symptoms. It is generally a chronic disease, lasting for several
years or a lifetime. Some people, however, may have a type that only lasts a few months.
What Are the Symptoms?
Some people may have no symptoms; others may have symptoms that include:
- Skin problems
- Lung problems
- Eye problems
- Arthritis
- Myositis
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
What Causes It?
Although the cause is unknown, suspected causes include:
- Viral/bacterial infection
- A defect in body immune system
- An unidentified toxic substance
- An unknown environmental cause
- An inherited or genetic factor
How Is It Diagnosed?
During a physical exam, physicians check for:
- Enlarged, tender lymph glands.
- Dry cough
- Erythema Nodosum (redness of the skin)
- Eye problems
Tests include:
- Biopsies of skin lesions, lymph nodes or lungs
- Chest X-ray
- Blood tests
Treatment Options
- Physical therapy
- Medications: glucocorticoids, NSAIDs/salicylates, colchicine, hydroxychloroquine.
Methotrexate, azathioprine and cyclosporine are being tested
Who Is At Risk?
Sarcoidosis is most common in young adults between the ages of 20 and 40. It affects
more women than men, and occurs more often in African-Americans.
More
Information About Sarcoidosis
Resources and Suggestions
We Also Suggest:
- Consult your physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Your local chapter can provide a listing of physicians who specialize in arthritis-related conditions.
- Learn to manage your condition -- get involved! Exciting events, volunteer activities and programs, such as the Arthritis Self-Help Course, support groups and exercise programs (consult your physician). Use the Chapter Locator to find activities near you.
- Arthritis Today magazine -- Search for more information or visit Your Arthritis Store to subscribe on-line!
- Your Arthritis Store -- books, newsletters, Arthritis Foundation membership, videos and more.
- Arthritis Today Drug Guide
- Alternative and Complementary Therapies
- Arthritis Today Supplement Guide
- Frequently asked questions about arthritis, treatments and coping skills.
- Arthritis in children, teens and young adults. Check out the information for parents and teachers, too!
- How to Care for Yourself
- Remember, you're not alone! Connect with other people on Message Boards.
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