Is sarcoidosis a type of cancer?

No, sarcoidosis is not cancer. It is an inflammatory condition where the immune system forms granulomas. However, it can sometimes be mistaken for lymphoma, so proper diagnosis is important.

Can sarcoidosis go away on its own?

Yes, in many cases sarcoidosis resolves without treatment within two to three years. However, some people develop a chronic form that requires ongoing medical management.

Does sarcoidosis affect only the lungs?

While the lungs are the most commonly affected organ, sarcoidosis can also involve the skin, eyes, liver, heart, nervous system, and virtually any other organ in the body.

AutoimmuneICD-10: D86Affects approximately 10-20 per 100,000 people in the United States

Sarcoidosis

Also known as: Besnier-Boeck-Schaumann disease

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of tiny clumps of inflammatory cells called granulomas in one or more organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to result from an abnormal immune response. Many people have no symptoms and the condition may resolve on its own, while others develop chronic organ damage.

Symptoms

Persistent dry cough

Shortness of breath

Fatigue and malaise

Swollen lymph nodes

Skin rashes or lesions

Joint pain and swelling

Blurred vision or eye pain

Fever

Weight loss

Causes

Abnormal immune system response to an unknown trigger
Possible environmental exposures such as dust, mold, or chemicals
Genetic predisposition
Possible infectious agents triggering immune activation

Risk Factors

African American or Scandinavian descent
Age between 20 and 40 years
Female sex
Family history of sarcoidosis

Diagnosis

Chest X-ray or CT scan to detect granulomas
Pulmonary function tests
Biopsy of affected tissue
Blood tests including ACE levels and calcium
Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage

Treatment

Corticosteroids such as prednisone to reduce inflammation
Immunosuppressive medications like methotrexate or azathioprine
Anti-malarial drugs such as hydroxychloroquine for skin and joint symptoms
TNF-alpha inhibitors for refractory cases
Regular monitoring without treatment for mild cases

Prevention

No known prevention due to unclear cause
Avoiding environmental irritants may reduce flare-ups

When to See a Doctor

Persistent unexplained cough or shortness of breath
New skin rashes or eye problems
Unexplained fatigue, fever, or weight loss
Swollen lymph nodes that do not resolve

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Tuberculosis

Infectious

Asthma

Respiratory

Lupus

Autoimmune

Pulmonary Fibrosis

Respiratory

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