SARCOIDOSIS DIAGNOSTIC AND TREATMENT

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by granulomas (small rounded outgrowths made up of blood vessels, cells and connective tissues) that can produce many different symptoms. It is generally a chronic disease, lasting for several years or a lifetime. Pulmonary sarcoidosis can cause loss of lung volume. This actually distorts the structure of the lungs and can interfere with breathing, especially the ability to exchange oxygen in the lungs. Diagnosis usually is first suspected because of pulmonary involvement and is confirmed by chest x-ray, biopsy, and exclusion of other causes of granulomatous inflammation.