Sarcoidosis may also be referred to as sarcoid or Besnier-Boeck Disease. It is an autoimmune condition characterized by the formation of non-cancerous nodes, called granulomas that can develop in various organs. In about 90% of patients with sarcoidosis, granulomas form in the lungs and in the various lymph nodes of the body.

About 40 in 100,000 people will develop sarcoidosis, usually before they turn 50. Though the disease is seen in all groups, it appears most commonly among people of Swedish, Danish and African American descent. Medical researchers believe that people who have a family history of sarcoidosis are more at risk for developing the condition.

Despite defining a potential genetic connection, the precise mechanisms that cause sarcoidosis to develop are not completely known. Medical researchers believe that many people with sarcoidosis have an inappropriate immune response to one or more of the following agents: viruses, bacteria, chemicals, or fungi. The body’s lymphocytes become overactive, attacking these agents and releasing chemicals, which produce granulomas.

The symptoms of sarcoidosis are numerous. People may first feel tired, run fevers and lose weight or have night sweats. If granulomas are in the lungs, a noted cough may be present, and shortness of breath after brief periods of activity is quite common. The lymph nodes, particularly those in the groin, under the chin, and under the arms may be enlarged and be painful. About 25% of people experience pain in the joints and muscles, and about 25% also experience patches of raised and discolored skin.

Less common symptoms include itching, burning or dry eyes. Some people with sarcoidosis may also be afflicted with sinus problems like runny nose, a hoarse voice or chronic sinus infections. In rare cases, granulomas may develop in the heart and affect the circulatory system.

Since sarcoidosis tends to mimic other illnesses, it may not be diagnosed unless a chest x-ray is taken. This is frequently done with patients with sarcoidosis, as some of the main symptoms are shortness of breath. A biopsy of swollen lymph nodes, and blood tests can also help diagnose sarcoidosis.

Sarcoidosis is usually treated with a variety of medications. Exposure to sunlight and foods rich in vitamin D also need to be avoided since these can cause the calcium-filled granulomas to form more readily. The most common medication to treat sarcoidosis is prednisone, which helps reduce inflammation of the tissues.

People with sarcoidosis also may take medications that reduce immune response like methotrexate and cyclophosphamide. These medications are commonly taken by people who receive transplants as well. They block the immune response but also make people more susceptible to illnesses and infection. Medications may also be given to treat organs affected by granulomas. For example, people with granulomas in their hearts might receive some drugs that will improve circulatory function.

Sarcoidosis patients are closely followed by their physicians and their response to treatment is carefully recorded. Treatment may be required by a number of specialists, depending upon the various organs affected. For example, a pulmonologist most frequently evaluates patients who have granulomas in their lungs, and a cardiologist might follow a patient with heart problems due to sarcoidosis.

With treatment, many patients live very normal lives, and sarcoidosis may disappear after a course of treatment. People who are treated for sarcoidosis have a 95% survival rate and generally are not limited as to activities, or disabled by the condition.