Device Therapy in Cardiac Sarcoidosis: Current Review, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Sarcoidosis is a complex disease characterized by inflammatory granulomas that can affect various organs, including the heart. The diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis poses challenges, and current criteria involve the use of advanced imaging techniques and histological confirmation. Clinical manifestations of cardiac sarcoidosis vary widely, ranging from heart block to ventricular tachycardia and heart failure. Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a significant concern, and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are recommended for preventing SCD in high-risk cases. However, some patients with cardiac sarcoidosis do not meet the current guidelines for ICD implantation, leaving them at risk. Traditional transvenous ICDs are associated with complications, especially in immunosuppressed patients. The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD) offers a potential solution, as it avoids vascular complications and reduces the risk of infections. However, concerns regarding inappropriate shocks and the lack of pacing therapy limit its widespread use. Leadless pacing combined with S-ICD represents a potential novel approach to managing cardiac sarcoidosis patients. Ongoing human clinical trials are expected to shed light on the safety and efficacy of this combined therapy. Cardiac sarcoidosis patients, who have been underserved by traditional device therapies, may benefit from this personalized approach. Further research is needed to guide the management of SCD risk in this population.