Lung sarcoidosis, also referred to as pulmonary sarcoidosis, is a medical condition that causes inflammation of the various tissues of the lungs. The disease often travels to other areas of the body as well. Some of the most common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and a dry cough. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis may involve a variety of medical tests, including blood tests, x-rays, and lung function tests. Steroid medications are often used to treat lung sarcoidosis, although milder cases may not require any medical treatment at all.
Some of the potential symptoms of this condition may mimic those found in other lung conditions, so diagnostic testing is often needed in order to confirm the presence of this disorder. These symptoms may include weakness, weight loss, and fever. In addition to a physical examination, the doctor may order additional tests as a way to ensure an accurate diagnosis. X-rays, blood tests, and lung function tests are frequently used for this purpose.
In some cases, more invasive medical testing may be required in order to diagnose lung sarcoidosis. A biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the inflamed area of the body. This tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory for more detailed testing. If there is another disease or disorder responsible for the inflammation, it will typically be revealed as a result of the biopsy. This type of test can be very useful in accurately diagnosing lung sarcoidosis.
Lung sarcoidosis often resolves on its own and does not require medical intervention. When the patient is no longer experiencing symptoms, he is said to be in remission. It should be noted that the symptoms do sometimes return, even several years following the original illness. If this occurs, a doctor should be consulted for further evaluation.
When treatment becomes necessary due to bothersome symptoms, prescription steroid medications are typically used. These medications are designed to reduce inflammation in the body and often improve symptoms associated with this condition. Patients who have had any type of lung disorder are advised to stop smoking and avoid environmental pollutants as much as possible. Frequent medical monitoring is usually recommended so that any new problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Any questions or concerns about the condition should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
