What is sarcodosis?

Question

What is sarcodosis?

Answer 1

The chapter in Harrison's textbook of medicine defines sarcoidosis as "a chronic multisystem disorder of unknown etiology characterized in affected organs by an accumulation of lymphocytes and mononuclear phagocytes, noncaseating epithelioid granulomas, and derangements of the normal tissue architecture."  Yet a more clear version comes from wikipedia which states . . . "Sarcoidosis, also called sarcoid (from the Greek 'sark' and 'oid' meaning "flesh-like") or Besnier-Boeck disease, is an immune system disorder characterized by non-caseating granulomas (small inflammatory nodules) that most commonly arises in young adults. The cause of the disease is still unknown. Virtually any organ can be affected; however, granulomas most often appear in the lungs or the lymph nodes. Symptoms can occasionally appear suddenly but usually appear gradually. The clinical course varies and ranges from asymptomatic disease to a debilitating chronic condition that may lead to death."