Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a condition where small clusters of inflammatory cells called granulomas form in various parts of the body, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. These granulomas can affect how organs work and cause symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The exact cause is unknown, but it involves an abnormal immune response. It can also affect the skin, eyes, and other organs, leading to a wide range of symptoms. Diagnosis often requires several tests to confirm the presence of granulomas and rule out other diseases.

Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of noncaseating granulomas in affected tissues, primarily the lungs and intrathoracic lymph nodes. The pathogenesis involves an exaggerated cell-mediated immune response to an unknown antigen, leading to accumulation of CD4+ T cells and macrophages. It commonly presents with bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, pulmonary infiltrates, and extrapulmonary manifestations such as skin lesions and uveitis. The disease can be acute or chronic and may cause organ dysfunction due to granulomatous inflammation and fibrosis. Diagnosis requires exclusion of infectious and other granulomatous diseases. It is significant for its variable clinical course and potential for chronic respiratory impairment.