Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem chronic inflammatory disease characterized by presence of noncaseating granulomas most commonly affecting the respiratory system, lymph nodes, central nervous system, skin, and eyes. This condition was first recognized by Hutchinson and the term “sarcoid” was coined by Norwegian dermatologist Caesar Boeck to describe the skin lesions. In the last few decades there has been a great increase in knowledge regarding the pathogenesis and manifestations of the disease. Ocular disease may occur in up to one-third of patients with the disease at any time during the natural history of the condition. Uveitis is the most common ocular manifestation and is usually bilateral. Granulomas may involve the periorbita, lacrimal gland, extraocular muscles, and adnexa. The spectrum of disease manifestations is very wide; neuro-ophthalmologic signs such as optic neuropathy may also occur in sarcoidosis. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis is often challenging due to variable manifestations, which may often appear to overlap with other clinical entities. Since most of the patients have a chronic progressive disease, early recognition and treatment can prevent ocular complications and systemic sequelae of sarcoidosis.