Pulmonary Evaluation of Patients Presenting with Dermatological Manifestations of Sarcoidosis

Sarcoido5is may involve virtually any organ system and its initial manifestations are protean. Dermatologic manifestations of sarcoidosis first cause patients to seek medical attention in approximately 10% of cases,' and at least 50% of patients with sarcoidosis v^ho are initially evaluated lor dermatologic complaints either have pulmonary disease at the time of presentation or subsequently go on to develop pulmonary sarcoidosis.^ Pulmonary disease accounts for a large portion of the morbidity and mortaiity caused by sarcoidosis. It is important that pulmonary involvement be recognized and treated prior to the development of extensive irreversible lung damage. Since the dermatologist may be the first physician to evaluate a patient with sarcoidosis and may be the patient's primary care physician, it is important that he have a clear understanding of pulmonary sarcoidosis. This review summarizes the manifestations of pulmonary sarcoidosis and provides guidelines for its evaluation and treatment.