Musculoskeletal involvement in sarcoidosis

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine
• Pathology

Background:

• Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease with unknown etiology.
• While primarily affecting the lungs, it frequently involves the musculoskeletal system.
• Rheumatic manifestations in sarcoidosis are diverse and can present at any disease stage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the spectrum of osteoarticular and muscle involvement in sarcoidosis.
• To highlight diagnostic approaches for rheumatic sarcoidosis.
• To discuss current management strategies for musculoskeletal manifestations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of sarcoidosis with rheumatic involvement.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria including imaging (X-ray, MRI) and histopathology.
• Summary of therapeutic options from conservative to immunosuppressive treatments.

Main Results:

• Common articular findings include arthralgia, polyarthritis, and Löfgren's syndrome.
• Skeletal involvement, like dactylitis, often indicates chronic, multi-organ disease.
• Muscle involvement is rare and typically asymptomatic; diagnosis relies on imaging and biopsy.

Conclusions:

• Rheumatic sarcoidosis presents variably, necessitating a comprehensive diagnostic workup.
• Treatment selection depends on disease severity and response, ranging from NSAIDs to advanced immunosuppression.
• Early recognition and management of musculoskeletal involvement are crucial for patient outcomes.