CAUSES
The exact cause of Sarcoidosis is not known. The disease can appear suddenly and then disappear, or it can develop gradually and produce symptoms that come and go for a lifetime.
Researchers believe that the disease is caused by an abnormal immune response. (The body’s defense system does not react as it should to a foreign substance "intruder.") In a healthy person, inflammation occurs as the cells of the body’s immune system come together to fight the intruder at an organ or tissue site. In a person with Sarcoidosis, however, cells that come to fight end up clumping together into small lumps called granulomas. |
SymptomsThe symptoms of Sarcoidosis can vary greatly from individual to individual, and depend on which tissues and organs are affected. In some people, symptoms may begin suddenly and/or severely and subside in a short period of time. Others may have no outward symptoms at all, even though organs are affected. Still others may have symptoms that appear slowly and subtly, but last or recur over a long time span.
Most common initial symptoms:
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Caring Hands Sarcoidosis Foundation does not promote, endorse or encourage participation in any specific organization. Details are provided for information ONLY and is subject to change without notice. Every effort is made to ensure that the details are as current as possible. Information provided is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, treat, or claim to prevent, mitigate or cure any diseases. You should consult with your physician.
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