CARDIAC INVOLVEMENT IN SARCOIDOSIS
Abstract:
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory systemic disease
defined by the presence of noncaseating epithelioid
granuloma. The aetiology is multifactorial, environmental
and genetic factors competing in generating the
immunological reactions that are responsible for the
tisular lesions in sarcoidosis. The diagnosis of cardiac
sarcoidosis can be extremely difficult when other sites of
involvement are lacking. There are no specific diagnostic
or screening tests for this disease besides demonstrating
the presence of noncaseating epithelioid granulomas on
endomyocardial biopsy specimens (rarely used). Delayedenhanced
magnetic resonance imaging and positron
emission tomography proved to have the best sensibility
and specificity in detecting and evaluating the effects of
steroid therapy in cardiac sarcoidosis. Early diagnosis
and initiation of corticotherapy are essential for
improving the long term prognosis of this disease.
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