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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2014; 35(03): 391-406
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1376401
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Medical Therapy of Sarcoidosis

Robert P. Baughman
1   Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
,
Elyse E. Lower
1   Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
09 July 2014 (online)

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Abstract

For treatment of sarcoidosis, one should develop a long-term management plan. Factors to be considered include the organ involvement and severity of symptoms. Different organ manifestations may require different treatments. Intensity of treatment is usually based on severity of disease or potential for organ failure or death. Glucocorticoids are quite effective as initial therapy for most forms of sarcoidosis. However, the toxicity associated with long-term treatment often leads to the use of alternative treatments. These include cytotoxic agents such as methotrexate, biologic agents such as the antitumor necrosis factor antibody infliximab, and other anti-inflammatory drugs such as hydroxychloroquine. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs may not help. Examples include pulmonary hypertension and fibrosis.

Keywords

sarcoidosis - medical therapy - glucocorticosteroids - immunosuppressive agents - TNF inhibitors