Published on Feb 07, 2025 5 min read

Sarcoidosis Treatments Explained: What You Need to Know

Sarcoidosis is a condition that causes small clusters of inflammatory cells, called granulomas, to form in different parts of the body, often affecting the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, or eyes. While its exact cause is unknown, sarcoidosis can cause symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and skin rashes. Treatments aim to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, helping patients maintain a good quality of life. This guide will explain common sarcoidosis treatments in simple terms, so you can better understand how they work and what to expect.

Causes of Sarcoidosis

Therefore, to this date, researchers are still unsure what causes sarcoidosis but hypothesise that it might be as a result of an inflammatory response to a foreign substance in the environment. Other theories also disagree claiming that both genetics and environmental factors like dust or chemicals are the causes of sarcoidosis. But further research needs to be conducted so as to get the root cause of the trend.

Diagnosis of Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is relatively difficult to diagnose because it is similar to other diseases and there is no unique test for it. A primary care physician will begin with a general assessment and history of the case, complete a chest X-ray or a CT scan at best, and some blood tests to diagnose the patient with TB rather than any other illness. Biopsy may be required to ensure the diagnosis of granulomas.

Treatment Options for Sarcoidosis

Now let's take a closer look at some common treatment options for sarcoidosis.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, also called steroids, are drugs that mimic the impact of hormones created by the adrenal glands in our body. The medications work by decreasing inflammation and by dampening the activity of the person’s immune response. In regards to sarcoidosis, pills may be prescribed or inhaler for lung inflammation. If the condition worsens, the patient can be prescribed oral corticosteroids or get a special kind of corticosteroid injection.

Side Effects

While they can help manage inflammation and symptoms, corticosteroids come with potential side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, high blood pressure, and increased risk of infections. Long-term use of these medications may also increase the risk of osteoporosis, diabetes, and cataracts.

Alternative Steroids

For patients who experience severe side effects from corticosteroids or do not respond well to them, alternative steroids such as methotrexate or azathioprine may be prescribed. These medications work in a similar way but may have different side effect profiles.

Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressants are medications that suppress the activity of the immune system. They are often used in sarcoidosis treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent further granuloma formation. Methotrexate and azathioprine fall into this category as well, but other common immunosuppressant drugs used in sarcoidosis treatment include:

• Mycophenolate mofetil: This medication helps prevent the formation of new granulomas and can also help reduce the size of existing ones.
• Cyclophosphamide: Often used in more severe cases, this medication works by suppressing the immune system to decrease inflammation.
• Hydroxychloroquine: This medication is commonly used for skin manifestations of sarcoidosis, as it can improve rashes and lesions. It may also be effective for other types of sarcoidosis.

Side Effects

Immunosuppressants carry a risk of weakening the body's ability to fight infections, so patients taking these medications may need to be monitored closely for any signs of infection. Other potential side effects include liver damage, gastrointestinal symptoms, and increased risk of skin cancer.

Biologic Therapies

Biologic therapies are a newer class of medications used in sarcoidosis treatment that target specific molecules involved in the inflammatory process. Some biologic agents approved for sarcoidosis treatment include:

• Infliximab: This medication works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a substance that promotes inflammation.
• Rituximab: This medication targets B cells, which are specialized immune cells involved in the formation of granulomas.

While biologic therapies can effectively reduce inflammation in some patients, they may also carry a risk of serious side effects such as increased susceptibility to infections and potential for allergic reactions.

Other Treatment Options

In addition to medication, there are other treatment options for sarcoidosis that may be used alone or in combination with other therapies:

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

For patients with lung involvement, pulmonary rehabilitation can help improve breathing and overall lung function through exercise, education, and support.

Oxygen Therapy

In some cases, sarcoidosis may cause low oxygen levels in the blood. In these situations, supplemental oxygen therapy may be prescribed to help improve breathing and reduce fatigue.

Surgery

Surgery is generally not a common treatment for sarcoidosis, but it may be recommended in rare cases where other treatments have not been effective or for certain complications such as enlarged lymph nodes or scarring in the lungs.

Finding the Right Treatment Plan

Every patient's experience with sarcoidosis is unique, and as such, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment approach. It may take some trial and error to find the right combination of medications and therapies that work best for each individual. Open communication with your healthcare team and following their recommendations can help ensure an effective treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

While living with sarcoidosis can be challenging, understanding the available treatments can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and improve your quality of life. Remember to always consult with a medical professional before starting or changing any treatment plan.

Future of Sarcoidosis Treatments

Research and clinical trials are ongoing to develop new and improved treatments for sarcoidosis. Some potential areas of focus include:

• Developing more targeted biologic therapies with fewer side effects
• Investigating the use of stem cell transplantation in severe cases
• Studying the role of genetics and biomarkers in sarcoidosis development and treatment

As research progresses, there is hope that more effective and personalized treatments will become available to help manage this complex disease.

Conclusion

Sarcoidosis is a complex and often unpredictable disease, but advancements in research and treatment options provide hope for those affected. By staying informed, working closely with healthcare professionals, and exploring emerging therapies, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their condition. Continued support for research and awareness is crucial to unlocking better solutions and improving the quality of life for people living with sarcoidosis. With ongoing efforts, the future holds promise for more effective care and a deeper understanding of this challenging condition.