Neurosarcoidosis: signs, course and treatment in 35 confirmed cases

Medicine (Baltimore). 1990 Sep;69(5):261-76.

Abstract

Thirty-five cases of biopsy-proven sarcoidosis with neurologic manifestations are reported. Neurosarcoidosis was the presenting symptom in 31% of cases and the only clinical manifestation in 17%. Mean follow-up time was 48 months. Central nervous system involvement was observed in 37% and meningitis in 40% of patients. Other manifestations were cranial nerve palsies (37%), peripheral neuropathy (40%), and myopathy (26%). Multiple neurologic manifestations were present in 51% of cases. All but 4 were treated with corticosteroids. Another immunosuppressive agent or cerebral irradiation was added in 6 and 2 patients, respectively. Complete recovery was observed in 46%, improvement in 46%, 4% remained stable, and 4% worsened. There were no deaths. We advocate treating neurosarcoidosis with corticosteroids as early as possible. If the patient's condition worsens, additional immunosuppressive agents or cerebral irradiation is warranted.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nervous System Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Nervous System Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Nervous System Diseases* / therapy
  • Radiography
  • Sarcoidosis* / diagnosis
  • Sarcoidosis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Sarcoidosis* / therapy