Breathe New LIfe: Sarcoidosis Foundation
About Sarcoidosis
What is Sarcoidosis?
Sarcoidosis (pronounced SAR-COY-DOE-SIS) is a multi-system disease that causes inflammation of the body's tissues. In sarcoidosis, the immune system does not function properly and lymphocytes, a type of blood cell, become overactive. These overactive lymphocytes release chemicals which cause granulomas (masses of inflamed tissue or lumps) to form in various organs of the body. The inflammation of sarcoidosis can occur in almost any organ in the body.
Who Has Sarcoidosis?
The disease can affect men and women of any age or race. However, it is most common among adults under age 50 and in certain ethnic groups.
• Swedes, Danes and African Americans in the U.S. have the highest prevalence rates in the world.
People of Asian, German, Irish, Puerto Rican and Scandinavian descent are commonly affected.
• Worldwide, prevalence estimates range from less than 1 to as many as 40 cases per 100,000.
• In the United States, prevalence rates are 10.9/100,000 for Caucasians and 35.5/100,000 for
African Americans.
• Most studies suggest a higher disease rate for women.
• Disease severity can vary by race or ethnicity.
Sarcoidosis can affect any organ in your body. It is more likely to affect some organs than others. usually starting in the lungs, skin, and/or lymph nodes (especially the lymph nodes in your chest).
The eyes and liver can also be affected .Less common, sarcoidosis can affect the heart and brain, leading to serious complications.
If too many granulomas form in any one organ, they can affect how the organ works. This may cause signs and symptoms, which vary depending on which organs are affected. Many people have no signs or symptoms or only mild symptoms.
Lofgren's syndrome is a classic set of signs and symptoms that is typical in some people who have sarcoidosis. Lofgren's syndrome may cause fever, enlarged lymph nodes, arthritis (usually in the ankles), and/or erythema nodosum (er-ih-THE-ma no-DO-sum).
Erythema nodosum is a rash of red or reddish-purple bumps on your ankles and shins. The rash may be warm and tender to the touch.
Treatment for sarcoidosis varies depending on which organs are affected. Your doctor may prescribe topical treatments and/or medicines to treat the disease. Not everyone who has sarcoidosis needs treatment.
For More information or to make a donation call 856 577 8285 or Breathe New Life P.O.Box 606 Rancocas, NJ 08073