Thoracic Sarcoidosis

Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Abstract Introduction Clinical Features Pathologic Features

Staging Radiologic Characteristics Complications Extrapulmonary Thoracic Manifestations

Differential Diagnosis Treatment and Prognosis Source Information References

Extrapulmonary Thoracic Manifestations

The clinical and radiologic manifestations of sarcoidosis are predominantly related to the lungs; however, virtually any organ can be affected. Autopsy studies have shown cardiac involvement in 25% of cases (Figure 26) (3,35). Only 10% of patients, however, have symptoms or radiologic findings related to the heart. Half of patients with abnormal electrocardiographic results are asymptomatic. However, sudden cardiac death due to granulomatous inflammation of the cardiac conduction pathways may be a presenting manifestation. Ventricular arrhythmias, heart block, congestive failure, angina, and ventricular aneurysm formation have also been reported. The pericardium is uncommonly involved, usually by direct extension of myocardial disease. Constrictive pericarditis may result (33,35).

The radiologic findings of cardiac sarcoidosis are nonspecific and include enlarged cardiopericardial silhouette, signs of pulmonary venous hypertension, arterial pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure (33).

Abstract Introduction Clinical Features Pathologic Features

Staging Radiologic Characteristics Complications Extrapulmonary Thoracic Manifestations

Differential Diagnosis Treatment and Prognosis Source Information References