What is sarcoidosis?

Sarcoidosis: Dear jbennett, sarcoidosis is a disease of unknown etiology which can affect almost any part of a patient's body. It is known for the granulomas it produces--non-caseating--which can form commonly in the lungs. About 50% of the patients are african or hispanic origin, there is also a large % from northern europe. It has been found that a patient's immune response creates the granulomas. ..

Systemic disease: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can effect many parts of the body. The cause is not known. "balls" of inflammatory cells called granulomas are seen in effected organs. Often a biopsy of the effected tissue showing the granulomas is required to make a diagnosis. Common ares effected include the lungs, skin , and eyes.