Frank Rivera of Stronger Than Sarcoidosis and Sarcoidosis of Long Island, two patient advocacy groups focused on raising awareness and research, discusses the rare disease.
Sarcoidosis is a rare, systemic, inflammatory disorder characterized by the formation of granulomas (i.e., small clusters of immune cells). These clusters appear in various organs and tissues throughout the body. This condition primarily affects the lungs but can involve other organs such as the skin, eyes, liver, heart, and lymph nodes.
Clinical presentation of sarcoidosis varies widely, depending on the organs involved. Pulmonary sarcoidosis is the most common form. Patients often present respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Extrapulmonary manifestations may include skin rashes, joint pain, uveitis, hepatosplenomegaly, cardiac abnormalities, and neurological symptoms.
As noted by Mr. Rivera, the disease can impact multiple organs and in his case, 95% of his body is impacted by this rare condition.
To stay up-to-date on this and other rare immunologic disorders, visit checkrare.com/diseases/autoimmune-auto-inflammatory-disorders/
