Sarcoidosis
Evidence: Unconfirmed
Names
Sarcoidosis
Besnier-Boeck-Schaumann disease
Description
One way the immune system works is to surround an invader and keep it from harming the body. Those small clumps of immune system cells are called granulomas and they form as part of the body's inflammation response to foreign, potentially harmful, substances.
In sarcoidosis the inflammation process gets out of control, and granulomas form even though there is no foreign substance, and the number of granulomas increases. When left untreated, the granulomas harden and produce permanent scars, usually in the lungs but they can occur in other organs and tissues.
The symptoms of sarcoidosis depend on where the granulomas form. In some cases, the disease goes away on its own. In others, the disease may not progress clinically but individuals will still suffer from some symptoms that affect their quality of life. Up to a third of people diagnosed will require long-term treatment. Sarcoidosis is considered chronic in people whose disease remains active for more than 2-5 years; chronic sarcoidosis can be debilitating and life-threatening.
Sarcoidosis often starts with a set of symptoms collectively referred to as Lofgren’s Syndrome (see below).
Patient Groups
Bloggers
None
Prevalence
US Cases: 192,000 [Baughman 2016]
Typical Age of onset
No specific age
Symptoms
Symptoms of Lofgren’s Syndrome:
Fever
Enlarged lymph nodes
Swollen and painful joints, arthritis
Erythema nodosum, raised, red, and tender bumps to form on the skin, usually on the front of the legs. Nearby joints are often swollen and painful.
Other symptoms:
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Chronic cough
Chest pain
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Night sweats
Irregular heart beat
Swollen legs
Headaches
Visual problems
Weakness or numbness of an arm, leg, or part of the face
Discoloration of the nose, cheeks, lips, and ears
Scaly-appearing skin
Rash
Joint pain
Muscle swelling
Muscle soreness
Burning, itching, tearing, or pain in the eyes
Red eyes
Sensitivity to light
Blurred vision
Note: some patients do not show any symptoms.