Sarcoidosis: clinical update

Eur Respir J Suppl. 2001 Sep:32:56s-68s.

Abstract

Many advances have been made regarding sarcoidosis in the past 2 decades. As a result, sarcoidosis is now defined as a multisystem disorder with a heightened cellular immune response at sites of disease activity in patients with a predisposition for sarcoidosis and a presumed exposure to as yet unknown transmissible environmental agents. Recent International Consensus Statement recommendations regarding diagnosis and therapy have been published. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis is based on a compatible clinical and/or radiological picture, histological evidence of noncaseating granulomas and exclusion of other diseases capable of producing a similar histological or clinical picture. Therapy is based on corticosteroids, although there are indications of valuable alternatives. Except for life- and sight-threatening organ involvement, it should be carefully considered whether the patient might benefit from treatment. For asymptomatic pulmonary sarcoidosis, a watch and wait approach is appropriate; treatment should mainly be considered if symptoms develop or lung function deteriorates.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Europe / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Prognosis
  • Sarcoidosis / diagnosis
  • Sarcoidosis / etiology*
  • Sarcoidosis / therapy
  • United States / epidemiology