Sarcoidosis is characterized by the development and growth of tiny clumps of inflammatory cells in different areas of your body -- most commonly the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes and skin.

Doctors believe sarcoidosis results from an abnormal immune response -- most likely to something inhaled from the air -- but just what triggers this response is not known. The course of sarcoidosis is variable from person to person. Often, it goes away on its own, but in some people signs and symptoms of sarcoidosis may last a lifetime.

Symptoms

1)Fatigue
2)Fever
3)swollen lymph nodes
4)weight loss
5)persistent dry cough
6)shortness of breath
7)wheezing
8)chest pain
9)rash
10)lesions
11)skin color change
12)nodules
13)blurred vision
14)eye pain
15)severe redness
16)sensitivity to light

Causes

Doctors do not know the exact cause of sarcoidosis. Some people appear to have a genetic predisposition for developing the disease, which may be triggered by exposure to specific bacteria, viruses, dust or chemicals.

Western Medicine Treatment

Corticosteroids. Prednisone and other corticosteroids are the first-line treatment for sarcoidosis. In some cases, these powerful anti-inflammatory drugs can be applied directly to an affected area -- via a cream to a skin lesion or with an inhaler to your lungs. Oral corticosteroids affect your whole body and can cause weight gain, mood swings, insomnia and weakened bones (osteoporosis).

Anti-rejection drugs. Drugs such as methotrexate (Trexall) or azathioprine (Imuran) reduce inflammation by suppressing your immune system. But these drugs carry their own risks, such as making you more vulnerable to infections.

Anti-malarial drugs. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) may be helpful for skin disease, nervous system involvement and elevated blood-calcium levels. Anti-malarial drugs can harm your eyes, so regular eye exams should be scheduled.

TNF-alpha inhibitors. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibitors are most commonly used to treat the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies have indicated that infliximab (Remicade) is also helpful in treating sarcoidosis. Potential side effects include congestive heart failure, blood disorders and lymphoma.

Organ transplant may be considered if sarcoidosis has severely damaged your lungs or liver.

Adopted from Wei Laboratories, Inc.