Systemic evaluation of a potential cutaneous sarcoidosis patient.
The diagnosis of sarcoidosis cannot be established by the presence of granuloma in a single organ, such as the skin. Therefore, the patient with potential cutaneous sarcoidosis should undergo a systemic evaluation for two reasons: to help confirm the diagnosis, and to identify other potential problems. This article reviews the recommended testing in patients with suspected or known sarcoidosis. The evaluation leads to a wide number of organs being assessed by either history, physical examination or routine laboratory investigations. The major organs routinely assessed are the lungs, the eyes, the liver and the heart.
Costabel
Ulrich
U
Department of Pneumology/Allergy, Ruhrlandklinik Essen, D-45239 Essen, Germany. erj.costabel@t-online.de <erj.costabel@t-online.de>
Guzman
Josune
J
Baughman
Robert P
RP
D000505:Alopecia / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006099:Granuloma / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D012507:Sarcoidosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D017565:Sarcoidosis, Pulmonary / Q000473:pathology; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology