Pediatric ocular sarcoidosis

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is an uncommon cause of childhood uveitis. However, the ophthalmologist familiar with the clinical features of childhood sarcoidosis can play a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of this disorder. Two subsets of pediatric sarcoidosis are identified. The 8-15 year age group has almost universal lung involvement, with the eye, skin, liver, and spleen involved in 30-40% of cases. Children 5 years of age and under are characterized by the triad of uveitis, arthropathy, and skin rash. The epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic evaluation, and ocular management of pediatric sarcoidosis are reviewed. The clinical and laboratory findings that distinguish sarcoidosis from other causes of childhood uveitis are discussed.