Neurosarcoidosis

Disease	Injury	Nutrition	Poison

Special Topic	Surgery	Symptoms	Test

Sarcoid, stage I - chest X-ray

Sarcoid, stage II - chest X-ray

Sarcoid, stage IV - chest X-ray

Neurosarcoidosis

Alternative Names:

Sarcoidosis - nervous system

Treatment:

There is no known cure for the disorder. Treatment is indicated if symptoms are severe or progressive. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms.

Corticosteroids such as prednisone are prescribed to reduce inflammation. They are often prescribed for months to years, or until symptoms subside. Other medications, particularly those that suppress the immune system, may also be recommended.

Symptoms should be treated. For example, a numb body part should be protected from harm. Weak areas may require physical therapy or appliances to aid mobility and ability to function. Psychiatric disorders or dementia may require safety interventions, assistance with care, and other treatments such as medication for depression. Pituitary disorders may respond to conventional treatments such as hormone replacement.

Expectations (prognosis):

The probable outcome varies. Some cases resolve on their own in 4 to 6 months. Other cases continue intermittently for the rest of the person's life.

A small percentage of people with sarcoidosis of any type will die as a direct result of the disorder, most commonly when brainstem or heart involvement causes a heart attack.

Complications:

Permanent neurologic losses
Progressive neurologic losses
Brainstem involvement (rare, but life-threatening)

Note: Complications are variable depending on which portion of the nervous system is involved and the response to treatment.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have sarcoidosis and any neurologic symptoms occur.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if there is a sudden loss of sensation, movement, or function.

Review Date: 7/28/2002
Reviewed By: Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., MSc, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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