Sarcoidosis is a disease in which inflammation produces tiny lumps of cells in organs throughout the body. The lumps, called granulomas, most often appear in the lungs, but they also can occur in the lymph nodes, eyes, skin or other areas of the body.
Causes
The cause of sarcoidosis is unknown. The disease can affect people of every race, sex and age. It appears most often in young people between 20 and 40 years of age. It is not contagious.
Symptoms
Sarcoidosis can manifest in various ways depending on the organs involvement, but common symptoms include fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, skin rashes, joint pains, and eye problems like blurry vision or sensitivity to light etc.
Diagnosis
There is no one diagnostic test to diagnose sarcoidosis. The doctor is likely to perform a variety of tests, which may include:
Medical history and physical exam to look for signs of sarcoidosis and rule out other diseases.
A chest X-ray and CT scan to look for enlarged lymph nodes and small round spots in the lungs
Pulmonary function tests to give an indication of how well the lungs work
A tissue biopsy—taking a small piece of tissue to examine under a microscope to look for signs of disease. In the lung, this is usually done through the airways using a proceedure called bronchoscopy.
Blood tests such as ACE, liver and kidney function tests
Eye examination
Treatment
For some sarcoidosis patients, their condition will improve without any treatment. Those who do need treatment are given medicine to reduce inflammation and slow the growth of the granulomas. Treatment is aimed at maintaining good lung function, reducing symptoms and preventing organ damage.
How serious is Sarcoidosis?
In many cases, sarcoidosis is mild. It makes a brief appearance, and then the granulomas may stop growing or shrink. Symptoms may go away within a few years without treatment.
The severe form of sarcoidosis slowly worsens over a period of years, and can cause permanent organ damage.
Between 20 and 30 percent of people with pulmonary sarcoidosis end up with permanent lung damage.
For some patients, sarcoidosis can become chronic, lasting for many years.
I, Neha Gupta, recently underwent treatment for sarcoidosis under the care of Dr. J.P. Agrawal, and I am incredibly thankful for the exceptional care I received. Dr. Agrawal’s expertise in Allergy and Respiratory Medicine, coupled with his compassionate approach, made a significant difference in my treatment journey.
Dr. Agrawal’s approach to sarcoidosis treatment is comprehensive and patient-centered. He conducted a thorough evaluation of my condition, taking the time to explain each aspect of the treatment plan and addressing any concerns I had with patience and understanding. His clear explanations and compassionate demeanor instilled confidence in me from the start.
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