Sarcoidosis

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors Complications

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Definition

Sarcoidosis is a disease characterized by the development and growth of tiny clumps of inflammatory cells in different areas of your body. Sarcoidosis can affect virtually any organ, but most commonly it affects your lungs, lymph nodes, eyes and skin.

Doctors believe sarcoidosis results from an abnormal immune response. The course of the disease varies from person to person. It often goes away on its own, but in some people symptoms of sarcoidosis may last a lifetime.

If you have minor symptoms of sarcoidosis, you may only need to be monitored until the condition improves. But if symptoms bother you or put vital organs at risk, treatment with anti-inflammatory medications can help.

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Symptoms