Sarcoidosis

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What is sarcoidosis? 

Sarcoidosis is a condition that causes inflammation in the body. This inflammation can lead to groups of immune cells forming red, swollen lumps called granulomas. These lumps can prevent the affected organ from working properly. Sarcoidosis most often occurs in the lungs and lymph nodes, but it can appear in any organ.

Because sarcoidosis can involve multiple organs, it’s often managed by rheumatologists, who specialize in treating systemic inflammatory diseases. They may work closely with other specialists like pulmonologists, cardiologists, dermatologists, nephrologists, neurologists, and ophthalmologists. At Penn Medicine, our specialists work as a team to diagnose, treat, and manage sarcoidosis. We’re nationally recognized for excellence in treating complex inflammatory conditions.

Organs that sarcoidosis can affect

Sarcoidosis is one condition, but it can involve different organs in the body. The lungs are most commonly affected, but the disease can also appear in the heart, skin, or nervous system, and in other areas. Some people have sarcoidosis in more than one organ at the same time.

Sarcoidosis symptoms 

Some people with sarcoidosis don’t have any symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they most often affect the lungs and can include hoarseness, wheezing, or a persistent cough.

When other symptoms are present, they may also include:

  • Severe fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Abdominal pain
  • Swollen or tender lymph nodes
  • Joint pain
  • Skin sores or rashes
  • Fever
  • Vision problems
  • Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)

What causes sarcoidosis? 

Experts don’t know why sarcoidosis causes the immune system to overreact, but it’s likely a mix of genetic, environmental, and possibly infectious factors. Some people may inherit gene changes that make them more likely to develop the disease. The condition is more common in people of African or Scandinavian descent, which also suggests a genetic link.

Infections may play a role, as bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms could trigger the immune system in some people. Exposure to certain environments with dust, mold, or other airborne particles might also increase the risk.

Sarcoidosis diagnosis and testing

To find out if you have sarcoidosis, your care provider will start with a physical exam. Blood and urine tests can check for signs of inflammation and show how well your liver and kidneys are functioning. They may take a tissue sample (biopsy) to look for granulomas. Your provider may also order tests to rule out other conditions or to help show which parts of your body are affected.

X-ray
We use x-rays to diagnose broken bones, lung problems, and many other conditions.
CT scan
A CT scan helps diagnose traumatic injuries, cancer, vascular diseases, and many other conditions.
MRI
An MRI provides high-resolution images of the brain, spine, and many other structures in the body.
PET scan
A PET scan helps us diagnose diseases and plan treatment as early as possible.
Pulmonary function tests
These tests look at various aspects of your lung function to help diagnose and treat pulmonary disease.
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
Electrocardiogram (EKG)

Sarcoidosis treatment

Treatment for sarcoidosis typically focuses on relieving symptoms or preventing long-term damage like scarring of the lungs. Steroid medicines are often the first treatment to help reduce inflammation and calm the immune system. Other medications may be used to treat specific symptoms or affected organs. If your symptoms are mild, your doctor may simply monitor your condition with regular checkups. In rare cases where sarcoidosis causes serious organ damage, surgery may be needed.

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Expert care for every type of sarcoidosis

Penn Medicine is a national leader in diagnosing, treating, and managing inflammatory diseases like sarcoidosis. Because we treat more cases than most centers, we recognize the patterns, ask the right questions, and often find answers when others can’t.

When your lungs are affected, our rheumatologists work closely with pulmonologists in the interstitial lung disease care program to guide your care. You also have access to advanced research and clinical trials that may lead to newer, more effective treatments. Our goal is to help you feel better, breathe easier, and regain control of your health.

Related specialties

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Our compassionate lung transplant surgeons are recognized worldwide.
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Our experts ensure you get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for this complex lung disease.
Rheumatology
We provide comprehensive, research-backed care for a wide range of arthritic and autoimmune diseases.

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Find a doctorCall 800-789-7366