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Hasbani GE, Uthman I, Jawad AS. Musculoskeletal Manifestations of Sarcoidosis. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS. ARTHRITIS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS 2022; 15:11795441211072475. [PMID: 35185345 PMCID: PMC8854226 DOI: 10.1177/11795441211072475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Since its initial description in the late 19th century, sarcoidosis has been extensively studied. Although the general mechanism of immune activation is known, many details especially in the context of disease associations are still missing. One of such associations is the musculoskeletal complications that are widely variable in terms of presentation and response to treatment. Sarcoidosis can involve the joints leading to acute and, less commonly chronic, arthritis. While acute arthritis is mostly self-resolving in nature, chronic arthritis may lead to deformity and destruction of the joint. Sarcoidosis can also involve the muscles, leading to different pathologies primarily categorized according to the clinical presentation, despite the efforts to find a new classification based on imaging, histological, and clinical findings. The bones can be directly and indirectly affected. Different types of bone lesions have been described, although around half of these patients remain asymptomatic. Osteoporosis, increased risk of fractures, hypercalcemia, and hypercalciuria are examples of the indirect effect of sarcoidosis on the bones, possibly contributed to elevated levels of calcitriol. Nevertheless, sarcoidosis can be associated with small-vessel, medium-vessel, and large vessel vasculitis, although it is frequently difficult to differentiate between the co-existence of a pure vasculitis and sarcoidosis and sarcoid vasculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges El Hasbani
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Vincent's Medical Center, Bridgeport, CT, USA
| | - Imad Uthman
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Sm Jawad
- Department of Rheumatology, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatous disease that affects individuals worldwide. The lungs are most commonly involved but any organ can be involved. It has variable manifestations and clinical course. Diagnosis of sarcoidosis is based on clinicopathologic findings and the exclusion of other causes of granulomatous disease. Its hallmark is the formation of granulomas in affected organs. Immunosuppressive therapy is the cornerstone of the management of sarcoidosis and is indicated when there is evidence of symptomatic or progressive disease or when critical organs (ocular, cardiac, nervous system) are involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Llanos
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Occupational Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Nabeel Hamzeh
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Occupational Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Abstract
Advanced imaging has demonstrated that musculoskeletal manifestations of systemic sarcoidosis are more common than previously thought. A definitive strategy for the management of osseous sarcoidosis has not been defined. Some lesions resolve spontaneously, and no systemic medication for sarcoidosis consistently resolves lesions. The orthopaedic surgeon treating patients with musculoskeletal sarcoidosis must make an appropriate diagnosis of bony lesions, seek multidisciplinary input from specialists in pulmonology and rheumatology regarding systemic treatment, and decide when surgery is necessary to prevent dysfunction.
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Abstract
Corticosteroids are the drug of choice for the treatment of sarcoidosis. Because the natural course of sarcoidosis may be self-limiting and/or cause no long-term harm, treatment is not mandatory. Corticosteroids are usually effective for all forms of sarcoidosis, and they work quickly. However, because of the potential toxicities of corticosteroids, alternative medications often need to be considered. Efforts should be made to minimize the corticosteroid dose while keeping the risk of toxicity as low as possible. This article outlines the indications for corticosteroid therapy for sarcoidosis, discusses various dosing regimens, and suggests when alternative corticosteroid agents should be considered.
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic disorder of unknown etiology, which may involve various tissues and organs and is characterized by a noncaseating granuloma reaction. While pathogenesis is not yet clear, cellular immune system activation and nonspecific inflammatory response occur secondarily to several genetic and environmental factors. T helper 1-cells and macrophage-derived pro-inflammatory cytokines stimulate the inflammatory cascade and formation of granuloma occurs as a result of tissue permeability, cell influx, and local cell proliferation. The different prevalence, clinical results, and disease course observed in different races and ethnic groups, is an indicator of the heterogeneous nature of the disease. Sarcoidosis may mimic and/or may occur concomitantly with numerous primary rheumatic diseases. This disease most commonly presents with bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, pulmonary infiltrations, and skin and eye lesions. Locomotor system involvement is observed at a range of 15% and 25%. Two major joint involvements have been described: acute and chronic form. The most common form, the acute form, may be the first sign of sarcoidosis and present with arthralgia, arthritis, or periarthritis. Chronic sarcoid arthritis is usually associated with pulmonary parenchymal disease or other organ involvement and occurs rarely. While asymptomatic muscular involvement is reported between 25% and 75%, symptomatic muscular involvement is very rare. Symptomatic myopathy may present as three different types: chronic myopathy, palpable nodular myositis, or acute myositis. Even if rare, 2-5% of cases may exhibit osseous involvement and it is frequently associated with lupus pernio, chronic uveitis, and multisystemic disease. Sarcoidosis was reported together with different rheumatologic diseases. There are studies showing that sarcoidosis may mimic the clinical and laboratory findings of these disorders. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids are used for treating the symptoms of rheumatologic findings. In patients who are unresponsive to corticosteroids, immunosuppressive and anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha drugs may be used. In this review, the incidence of rheumatologic symptoms, the clinical findings, and the treatment of rheumatologic manifestations of sarcoidosis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senol Kobak
- Associate Professor, Department of Rheumatology, Sifa University Faculty of Medicine, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
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Hessen M, Eberhart C, Butler N, Akpek EK. Sarcoidosis presenting as scleral nodule. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2014; 22:311-3. [PMID: 24724703 DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2013.805786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Abstract
Granuloma formation occurs in the human body if there is a particle which persists in phagocytes and which the immune system cannot eliminate. The immune reaction of granuloma formation evolved in order to combat mycobacteria with the aim of localizing mycobacteria and to avoid spreading of mycobacteria throughout the body. Granulomatous lung diseases are often accompanied by severe, systemic inflammation. However, acute phase proteins may be only slightly elevated. The spectrum of granulomatous lung diseases is broad. Sarcoidosis is the most common granulomatous lung disease. To diagnose sarcoidosis, other infectious granulomatous lung diseases such as tuberculosis, atypical mycobacterial and fungal infection have to be ruled out. Pulmonary granuloma also evolve in the context of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GBA, Wegener's) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA, Churg-Strauss syndrome). Furthermore, immunodeficiencies such as common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and immune reconstitution syndrome in HIV can be associated with systemic granulomatous inflammation. Finally, occupational lung disease, particularly hypersensitivity pneumonitis, silicosis, hard metal lung, and chronic berylliosis are associated with pulmonary granuloma formation.
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease characterized by the development of epithelioid granulomas in various organs. Although the lungs are involved in most patients with sarcoidosis, virtually any organ can be affected. Recognition of extrapulmonary sarcoidosis requires awareness of the organs most commonly affected, such as the skin and the eyes, and vigilance for the most dangerous manifestations, such as cardiac and neurologic involvement. In this article, the common extrapulmonary manifestations of sarcoidosis are reviewed and organ-specific therapeutic considerations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak A. Rao
- Division of Rheumatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 45 Francis Street, PBB-3, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Paul F. Dellaripa
- Division of Rheumatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 45 Francis Street, PBB-3, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Beegle SH, Barba K, Gobunsuy R, Judson MA. Current and emerging pharmacological treatments for sarcoidosis: a review. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2013; 7:325-38. [PMID: 23596348 PMCID: PMC3627473 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s31064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of sarcoidosis is not standardized. Because sarcoidosis may never cause significant symptoms or organ dysfunction, treatment is not mandatory. When treatment is indicated, oral corticosteroids are usually recommended because they are highly likely to be effective in a relative short period of time. However, because sarcoidosis is often a chronic condition, long-term treatment with corticosteroids may cause significant toxicity. Therefore, corticosteroid sparing agents are often indicated in patients requiring chronic therapy. This review outlines the indications for treatment, corticosteroid treatment, and corticosteroid sparing treatments for sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott H Beegle
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
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Maier LA, Barkes BQ, Mroz M, Rossman MD, Barnard J, Gillespie M, Martin A, Mack DG, Silveira L, Sawyer RT, Newman LS, Fontenot AP. Infliximab therapy modulates an antigen-specific immune response in chronic beryllium disease. Respir Med 2012; 106:1810-3. [PMID: 22974830 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2012.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Revised: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is an uncommon systemic inflammatory disorder characterized by noncaseating granulomatous inflammation that most commonly affects the lungs, intrathoracic lymph nodes, eyes and skin. One-third or more of patients with sarcoidosis have chronic, unremitting inflammation with progressive organ impairment. Findings of family and genetic studies indicate a genetic susceptibility to sarcoidosis, with genes in the MHC region having a dominant role. Immunologic hallmarks of the disease include highly polarized expression of cytokines produced by type 1 T helper cells and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) at sites of inflammation. Increasing evidence obtained within the past decade suggests the etiology of sarcoidosis predominantly involves microbial triggers, with the most convincing data implicating mycobacterial or propionibacterial organisms. Innate immune mechanisms, possibly involving misfolding and aggregation of serum amyloid A, might have a critical role in the pathobiology of sarcoidosis. Despite these advances, there are no clinically useful biomarkers that can assist the clinician in diagnosis, prognosis or assessment of treatment effects. Corticosteroids remain the cornerstone of therapy when organ function is threatened or progressively impaired. The role of immunosuppressive drugs and anti-TNF agents in the treatment of sarcoidosis remains uncertain, and there are no FDA-approved therapies. Meaningful progress in developing clinically useful tools and new therapies will depend on further advances in understanding the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis and its disease-specific pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward S Chen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, 5501 Hopkins Bayview Circle, Room 4B63, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Panselinas E, Rodgers JK, Judson MA. Clinical outcomes in sarcoidosis after cessation of infliximab treatment. Respirology 2009; 14:522-8. [PMID: 19386069 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1843.2009.01518.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Infliximab appears to be efficacious for the treatment of recalcitrant forms of sarcoidosis. However, there are minimal data concerning the course of sarcoidosis once infliximab is discontinued. METHODS Clinical outcomes in patients who had received infliximab and had discontinued it for at least 2 months were analysed retrospectively. The severity of involvement of the index organ from the time of discontinuation of infliximab was compared with that at the end of the follow-up period. RESULTS Fourteen patients with sarcoidosis who had been treated with infliximab and had discontinued this therapy were identified. Before discontinuation of infliximab, 9 of the 14 patients (64%) responded to infliximab treatment and only one (7%) deteriorated. Patients who discontinued infliximab were followed for a mean of 12 months. At the end of the follow-up period, 12 of the 14 patients (86%) had deteriorated as compared with their status at the time of discontinuation of infliximab and two (14%) had remained stable. Kaplan-Meier analysis of time to clinical deterioration showed that half the patients deteriorated within 3 months of discontinuing infliximab. Patients who had discontinued infliximab appeared to be more likely to have their dose of prednisone increased. CONCLUSION Patients with recalcitrant sarcoidosis who receive infliximab appear likely to deteriorate after discontinuation of this medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstratios Panselinas
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA.
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Kim R, Meyer KC. Therapies for interstitial lung disease: past, present and future. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2009; 2:319-38. [PMID: 19124380 DOI: 10.1177/1753465808096948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
As our understanding of the pathobiology and natural history of the various forms of interstitial lung disease (ILD) has evolved, so have our approaches to treating this heterogeneous group of lung disorders. The earliest pharmacologic agents used to treat various forms of ILD were corticosteroids, and corticosteroids are currently the mainstay of therapy for many forms of ILD. However, it has become clear that corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory agents lack efficacy for many forms of ILD, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and newer therapies that are in clinical trials target the fibrogenic process and/or secondary pulmonary hypertension (PH) that is present in various forms of fibrotic lung disease. Novel therapies, such as the use of biologic agents (antibodies and cell cycle inhibitors) or stem cell therapies will undoubtedly evolve as new research is performed and clinical trials are undertaken. Lung transplantation remains an option for advanced lung disease that is progressive and unresponsive to non-surgical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, WI, USA
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Sarcoidosis. Ophthalmology 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-04332-8.00134-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatous disease of unknown aetiology, characterized by the presence of non-caseating epithelioid cell granulomas on tissue biopsy of affected organs. It may involve any organ, presenting in multiple forms to clinicians of different specialties. In its extra-thoracic form it may involve the liver (50-80%), spleen (40-80%), eye (20-50%), extrathoracic lymph nodes (30%), skin (25%), nervous system (10%), heart (5%), kidney, muscle and bone, sometimes without symptoms. The presence of extrathoracic disease may affect the prognosis and treatment options for sarcoidosis. The authors present a review of the major extra-thoracic manifestations of sarcoidosis regarding its clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Costa
- Servico de Pneumologia, Centro Hospitalar de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy B Doherty
- Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77005, USA
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18
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Grunewald J. Clinical aspects and immune reactions in sarcoidosis. CLINICAL RESPIRATORY JOURNAL 2007; 1:64-73. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-699x.2007.2007.00019.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Badgwell C, Rosen T. Cutaneous sarcoidosis therapy updated. J Am Acad Dermatol 2007; 56:69-83. [PMID: 17190623 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2006.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2005] [Revised: 04/14/2006] [Accepted: 06/19/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The widely accepted standard therapy for cutaneous sarcoidosis includes corticosteroids, antimalarials, and methotrexate. However, a better understanding of the basic immunopathogenic properties of sarcoidosis has elucidated a number of steps critical to the persistence and progression of disease that may be vulnerable to treatment by targeted therapy. This article reviews both standard and newer therapeutic options for cutaneous sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Badgwell
- Dermatology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, and Houston Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Texas, USA
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Grover S, Murthy PS, Kar PK, Tewari V, Shivyogi TC, Manjunath R. Cutaneous Sarcoidosis: Report of Two Cases. Med J Armed Forces India 2006; 62:375-7. [PMID: 27688547 DOI: 10.1016/s0377-1237(06)80114-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2004] [Accepted: 04/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S Grover
- Classified Specialist (Dermatology & Venereology), Command Hospital (AF), Bangalore - 560007
| | - P S Murthy
- Classified Specialist (Dermatology & Venereology),7 Air Force Hospital, Kanpur
| | - P K Kar
- Classified Specialist (Dermatology & Venereology),Command Hospital (AF), Bangalore - 560007
| | - V Tewari
- Classified Specialist (Pathology), Command Hospital (AF), Bangalore - 560007
| | - T C Shivyogi
- Senior Residents (Dermatology & Venereology), Command Hospital (AF), Bangalore - 560007
| | - R Manjunath
- Senior Residents (Dermatology & Venereology), Command Hospital (AF), Bangalore - 560007
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcoidosis is a multifactorial systemic inflammatory disorder of unknown origin characterized by many potential signs and symptoms, as well as by the presence of noncaseating granulomas in the organs involved. Sarcoidosis also may manifest in the oral and maxillofacial region. CASE DESCRIPTION The authors describe a patient with xerostomia, dysgeusia, oral burning, xerophthalmia and bilateral parotid enlargement. She was diagnosed as having systemic sarcoidosis on the basis of the histologic findings of a biopsy of the labial minor salivary gland, as well as subsequent diagnostic evalutons. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Enlargement of major salivary glands may be the first sign of sarcoidosis in a patient with few other symptoms or clinical findings suggestive of the disease. This case emphasizes the importance of including sarcoidosis in the differential diagnosis of bilateral parotid swelling associated with xerostomia. It also highlights the dentist's potential role in the diagnosis and dental treatment of patients with systemic sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Fatahzadeh
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey--New Jersey Dental School, Newark 07103, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Many patients with sarcoidosis are unable to tolerate corticosteroids or alternative therapeutic agents due to side effects or have disease refractory to these agents. We report our experience using infliximab to treat such patients. METHODS A group of patients in whom traditional sarcoidosis therapy failed, either due to drug failure or intolerable side effects, were prescribed infliximab. Their charts were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS Ten patients receiving infliximab were reviewed. Nine of the 10 patients reported a symptomatic improvement with therapy, and all 10 demonstrated objective evidence of improvement. A drug reaction developed in one patient after several months of therapy, oral candidiasis developed in one patient, and angioimmunoblastic lymphoma developed in another patient. The corticosteroid dose was reduced in five of the six patients who were receiving corticosteroids at the time of infliximab therapy. CONCLUSION Infliximab appears to be an effective, safe treatment for patients with refractory sarcoidosis, including such manifestations as lupus pernio, uveitis, hepatic sarcoidosis, and neurosarcoidosis. Infliximab appears to be steroid sparing. Patients receiving the drug should be screened for latent tuberculosis and lymphoproliferative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Doty
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, Suite 812-CSB, PO Box 250623, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease that frequently involves the lung. Although classically thought of as a restrictive lung disease, airway obstruction has become a recognized feature of the disease in the past years. Sarcoidosis can affect the airway at any level and when the involvement includes small airways, it can resemble more common obstructive airway diseases, such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. Pulmonary function testing and high-resolution computerized tomography of the chest are two important tools to evaluate the presence and extent of airway obstruction in sarcoidosis. Pharmacologic options for the treatment of obstructive sarcoidosis are, in large part, not supported by large, randomized clinical trials. In severe cases of bronchostenosis owing to sarcoidosis granuloma or extrinsic compression from intrathoracic lymphadenopathy, interventional bronchoscopy has successfully been performed, although repeated procedures are usually required. Lung transplantation is an ultimate option in selected patients with late-stage fibrotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petey Laohaburanakit
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Abstract
Progress in our understanding of the scientific basis of granulomatous inflammation in sarcoidosis provides a framework for enlightened treatment decisions. Current evidence supports the concept that the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis involves a highly polarized T-helper 1 (Th1) immune response to pathogenic tissue antigens. Conventional treatment is focused on attenuating granuloma formation with antimalarial drugs that inhibit antigen presentation or with nonspecific anti-inflammatory agents such as glucocorticosteroids, methotrexate, or azathioprine. Anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha agents such as pentoxifylline, thalidomide, etanercept and remicade, have recently shown some successes in sarcoidosis. Designing future therapies depends on improved knowledge of the critical immunological processes operative in different stages of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Moller
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown cause that most commonly affects the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, eyes, spleen, bone, and glandular tissue. The diagnosis is made when characteristic histologic findings are demonstrated and other granulomatous processes are excluded. It can be an acute or chronic debilitating disease, but in patients with acute disease the process can be self-limited. Multiple therapeutic options have been described both for the cutaneous and systemic lesions of sarcoidosis. Steroids, however, remain the cornerstone of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Giuffrida
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, 1400 NW 12th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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Abstract
Chronic inflammation in many pulmonary diseases, such as sarcoidosis and IPF, lead to end-stage lung disease and fibrosis. In other diseases, such as chronic thromboembolic disease and emphysema, long-term complications can result in pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale. Therapeutic options for end-stage lung disease are quite limited. One possible solution is lung transplantation. Although fraught with potential serious complications, including infection, rejection, and death, lung transplantation may offer overall improvement in mortality rates and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Brown
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
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Abstract
UNLABELLED Sarcoidosis is a systemic noncaseating granulomatous disorder of unknown origin. The cutaneous manifestations of sarcoidosis often enable the dermatologist to be the first physician to make the diagnosis. This article reviews essential sarcoidosis pathophysiology, clinical polymorphisms, systemic evaluation, and treatment modalities for cutaneous sarcoidosis to further enhance the dermatologist's understanding of this disease entity. LEARNING OBJECTIVE At the conclusion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with the theories of the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis, its cutaneous manifestations, its various syndromes and associations, and its presentation in children. Participants should also be more knowledgeable about diagnostic evaluation, measurement of disease progression, treatment modalities, and the prognosis and mortality data of sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C English
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mañá
- Servicio de Medicina Interna. Ciutat Sanitària i Universitària de Belllvitge. Universitat de Barcelona
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Arriero J, Signes-Costa J, Chiner E, Marco J. Spontaneous remission of pulmonary and splenic lesions in sarcoidosis. Radiography (Lond) 2000. [DOI: 10.1053/radi.2000.0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown origin, characterized in affected organs by an accumulation of activated T lymphocytes and macrophages. Musculoskeletal manifestations of sarcoidosis include acute and chronic arthritis and muscular and osseous sarcoidosis. In certain populations, acute sarcoidosis often presents with constitutional symptoms, polyarthritis and erythema nodosum (Löfgren's syndrome). Erythema nodosum, often with joint symptoms, also occurs in association with several other conditions including infections, medications and other underlying diseases. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis should be based on a tissue biopsy, but a patient with typical Löfgren's syndrome may not require biopsy proof. Among the long list of biochemical markers that have been suggested as aids for diagnosis and monitoring of sarcoidosis, calcium in serum and urine and angiotensin-converting enzyme in serum are well-established clinical tools. Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme can be used for monitoring disease activity in the individual patient, but because of lack of sensitivity and specificity its diagnostic value is rather low. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents usually effectively alleviate acute sarcoid arthritis and joint symptoms associated with erythema nodosum. In severe acute arthritis and in chronic arthritis, corticosteroids may be required to control the symptoms. In patients requiring persistent corticosteroid therapy, antimalarial agents and methotrexate constitute therapeutic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Pettersson
- Department of Medicine, Helsinki University Central Hospital, HUCH, FIN-00029, Finland
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31
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Batal H, Chou LL, Cottrell DA. Sarcoidosis: medical and dental implications. ORAL SURGERY, ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL PATHOLOGY, ORAL RADIOLOGY, AND ENDODONTICS 1999; 88:386-90. [PMID: 10519742 DOI: 10.1016/s1079-2104(99)70049-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H Batal
- Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, MA 02118, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Baughman
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267-0564, USA
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Judson MA. An approach to the treatment of pulmonary sarcoidosis with corticosteroids: the six phases of treatment. Chest 1999; 115:1158-65. [PMID: 10208222 DOI: 10.1378/chest.115.4.1158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticosteroid therapy for pulmonary sarcoidosis is not standardized. There is no consensus on which patients should receive treatment, how patients should be monitored, and the dose of corticosteroids once the decision to treat has been made. These issues are important for several reasons. First, inappropriate use of corticosteroids may result in unnecessary toxic reactions. Second, inadequate use of corticosteroids might result in permanent pulmonary and extrapulmonary organ dysfunction from sarcoidosis. Third, patients who are inappropriately labeled as "corticosteroid failures" may be subjected to other potentially toxic drugs or even lung transplantation. Corticosteroid dosing involves six phases: (1) initial high doses to control inflammation; (2) tapering to a maintenance dose that will continue to suppress the inflammation but lessen the risk of corticosteroid toxic reactions; (3) continuing to receive the maintenance dose until a decision to taper off corticosteroids is made; (4) tapering off corticosteroid therapy; (5) observation for relapse; and (6) treatment if relapse occurs. Although these phases of treatment have been alluded to in the literature, few of them have been studied rigorously. This article describes the use of corticosteroids for pulmonary sarcoidosis in terms of the above six phases. The proposed dosing schedules are based on the natural history of the disease and the results from published treatment studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Judson
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425, USA.
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Johns CJ, Michele TM. The clinical management of sarcoidosis. A 50-year experience at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Medicine (Baltimore) 1999; 78:65-111. [PMID: 10195091 DOI: 10.1097/00005792-199903000-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is an enigmatic disease with extremely variable manifestations in pattern, severity and course. Since Longcope and Freiman's descriptive monograph in 1952 (50) summarizing the clinical findings of the first half of this century, new dimensions of assessing the disease and treatment have been added. The impact of corticosteroids is central. The present review extends the studies to the second half of this century. Earlier diagnosis is facilitated and treatment often reverses many of the disease manifestations and improves the quality and extent of life for the patient. The management issues and guidelines outlined in this paper for both intrathoracic and extrathoracic disease are based on several longitudinal studies of the sarcoidosis patients summarized here, and 50 years of clinical experience by the senior author (CJJ) at Johns Hopkins Hospital, a tertiary referral center with an active Sarcoid Clinic. Case reports are presented in the appendix. It is clear that corticosteroids are the most effective therapeutic agent for sarcoidosis, usually with impressive and prompt response. This represents the dramatic difference in this disease after 1950. No more specific or effective immunosuppressive or antiinflammatory agents have been identified. Undesirable side effects are minimal if excessive doses are avoided. The effectiveness of "steroid-sparing agents" such as methotrexate is uncertain. Although irreversible tissue damage from the disease may limit the effectiveness of treatment, benefits of corticosteroids greatly exceed the negative side effects. Since spontaneous remissions without treatment do occur, a period of observation of 2 years are more is warranted if the patient is relatively asymptomatic. Gradual radiographic progression for 2 or more years, even without major symptoms or reduction in pulmonary function, indicates the need for a trial of corticosteroid treatment, especially in white patients where symptoms may lag behind the radiographic changes. Relapses as treatment is withdrawn are frequent, especially in African-American patients, who tend to have more severe and more prolonged disease than white patients. A minimum of 1 year of treatment is recommended unless no improvement is noted after 3 months. Continued low-dose prednisone at daily doses of 10-15 mg is helpful in preventing relapses and further progression of disease. Periodic attempts at tapering are justified. Repeated relapses may indicate the need for life-long treatment. When irreversible changes are present, especially in the presence of chronic fibrotic disease, changing goals of treatment to provide optimal supportive care may represent better management than having unrealistic expectations from increased corticosteroid dosage or the addition of other potentially toxic immunosuppressive agents. Many agents related to sarcoidosis require further research. The most important question facing sarcoid researchers today is etiology. It is difficult to design specific therapy when the fundamental causes and disease mechanisms are not established. Rather than being a single disease with a single cause, it is possible that a number of genetic factors and environmental or infectious agents may result in an immune response that is manifested as sarcoidosis. Understanding basic causal mechanisms may help explain the varied disease manifestations and aid in designing curative treatments. Such etiologic questions should be explored from both a basic science and an epidemiologic approach. Therapeutic trials of new drugs such as pentoxyfylline and possibly thalidomide are needed to address their potential as well as limitations of steroid therapy. Finally, for patients who have progressed to organ failure, the problems of sarcoid recurrence in transplanted tissue, increased allograft rejection, and long-term prognosis of solid organ transplants have yet to be resolved. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED)
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Johns
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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