Template:Sarcoidosis

What is sarcoidosis? Sarcoidosis is a condition in which groups of cells in your immune system form small, red, and swollen (inflamed) lumps. These lumps are called granulomas. They can form in any organ in the body. But they most commonly affect the lungs and lymph nodes in the chest. Over time, sarcoidosis can cause permanent scarring of organs. What causes sarcoidosis? Your immune system creates inflammation to help defend you against germs and sickness. But in sarcoidosis, inflammation goes off track. It causes the cells in your immune system to form granulomas. Studies suggest that this inflammation might be triggered by infections and certain substances in the environment such as insecticides and mold . And your genes may affect how your immune system reacts to a trigger. Who is more likely to develop sarcoidosis? Anyone can develop sarcoidosis, but you are more likely to have it if you: Are older, especially if you are over age 55 Live or work near insecticides, mold, or other substances that may cause inflammation Have a close relative who has sarcoidosis Take certain medicines, such as some types of HIV medicines and monoclonal antibodies Are of African or Scandinavian descent Are female What are the symptoms of sarcoidosis? Many people who have sarcoidosis have no symptoms, or they may feel unwell but without any obvious symptoms. If you have symptoms, you may have some general symptoms. And you may have other symptoms, which will depend upon which part of the body is affected. The general symptoms can include: Fatigue Weight loss Swollen lymph nodes Depression Fever Night sweats (heavy sweating during sleep) The symptoms of sarcoidosis in the lungs can include: Wheezing Cough Shortness of breath Chest pain The symptoms of sarcoidosis in other parts of the body can include: Larger than normal liver or spleen Jaundice , which can make your eyes or skin yellow Nervous system problems , such as: Headache Dizziness Vision problems Seizures Numbness or tingling Heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat ( arrhythmia ) Pain and swelling in the joints Skin problems such as rashes and growths under the skin There is also a set of symptoms that are called Lofgren's syndrome . Some people have Lofgren's syndrome when they first develop sarcoidosis. It usually goes away completely within 2 years. The symptoms of Lofgren's syndrome may include: Swollen lymph nodes in your chest, neck, chin, armpits, or groin. A rash of small, itchy, or painful bumps called erythema nodosum. The rash is most often on your head, neck, or legs. Blurred vision, eye pain or redness, light sensitivity, or watery eyes. Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. Fever. What other problems can sarcoidosis cause? If untreated, or if the treatment does not work, sarcoidosis can cause serious health problems called complications. Possible complications include: Lung problems Heart problems Hormone problems Brain , nerve, or muscle problems Kidney problems Severe organ damage How is…