Sarcoidosis Mate pauku

We do not know exactly what causes sarcoidosis but it seems to run in families. There is a theory that an infection triggers it in people whose genes put them at risk of getting it. But no specific infection has been identified as the cause of sarcoidosis. 

Symptoms can include:

• a persistent cough
• chest pain or discomfort
• tiredness
• losing weight without trying
• painful red lumps (erythema nodosum) on the front of the legs.

Some people have no symptoms and it is picked up in a routine chest x-ray.

Most people have acute sarcoidosis, which only lasts a few years. But there is a rarer form known as chronic sarcoidosis that can need long-term treatment.

Speak to your healthcare provider if you have any symptoms. They will ask you about them and do a physical exam. They may:

• organise an x-ray or CT scan to rule out other conditions
• arrange spirometry (a test to measure how well your lungs are working)
• arrange a blood test
• arrange a biopsy (a small sample of tissue) to confirm a diagnosis.

Many people with mild sarcoidosis will not need any treatment, and it often goes away on its own within 1 to 3 years. Your healthcare provider will monitor you over this time.

If you have more severe symptoms you will usually be treated with oral steroids (prednisone). Steroids can reduce your bone density and may cause osteoporosis. They can also cause weight gain. Talk to you healthcare provider about what you can do to keep your bones strong and maintain your weight.

Prednisone — My Medicinesexternal link

Sometimes you will also need immunosuppressants to suppress your immune system.