It is worth watching the symptoms of sarcoidosis. Breathing problems, blurred vision, chronic fatigue? It could be sarcoidosis. It most often affects the lungs and skin. Eye sarcoidosis can even cause permanent vision loss.
Sarcoidosis- a disease of the immune system caused by the accumulation of Th1 lymphocytes and macrophages in the lymph nodes and tissues. Overproduced substances are deposited in the form of nodules (so-called cocci) in the lungs, under the skin and around the eyes.Sarcoidosisdoes not bypass the heart and the nervous system.
Disease symptoms
Sarcoidosis is a problematic disease that is difficult to detect. Many symptoms are confused with other common immune disorders, such as:
- eye hypersensitivity,
- persistent fatigue,
- dry cough,
- minor and troublesome skin lesions,
- blurred vision.
Subcutaneous nodules and infiltrative changes can be observed on the skin. They may be slightly scarred, but not seriously ulcerated.
Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Most cases of sarcoidosis occur in the lungs and lymph nodes. The most advanced stage of the disease can lead to lung calcification. The test for sarcoidosis in the lungs is x-ray of the lungs. However, it should be remembered that this test only detects changes of 2mm. That is why lung biopsy will be more effective with micro-changes.
What are the effects of pulmonary sarcoidosis on the body? The appearance of granulomas in the lungs can lead to calcification of the lungs - they will be less flexible and mobile. The flow of air in the lungs and the transport of oxygen to the blood will also be hindered.
Cutaneous sarcoidosis
Skin changes affect about 20% of patients. The most common are erythema nodosum (large, painful, reddened infiltrates mainly on the front side of the lower leg), papular and maculopapular eruptions, small ulcerations, ichthyosis lesions, hair loss, discoloration or redness, nodules under the skin, and rash lupus (distorting infiltrates with discoloration of the ears, lips, cheeks and nose).
Eye Sarcoidosis
Causes inflammation and manifests as eye granulomas. If left untreated, sarcoidosis of the eyes can even lead to blindness. Oftenthe disease can also lead to:
- glaucoma,
- cataracts,
- adhesions between the iris and the lens.