Overview of Pulmonary Sarcoidosis

Sanjay Shukla, MD, the president and CEO of aTyr Pharma, provides an overview of pulmonary sarcoidosis, including diagnostic indicators.

Pulmonary sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the development and growth of tiny lumps of cells called granulomas, which grow and clump together in the lungs, affecting the organ's structure and function. Over time, this can lead to permanent scarring or thickening of lung tissue (also called fibrosis).

Signs and symptoms of sarcoidosis vary based on the location of the granulomas and the severity of the condition. The exact cause of sarcoidosis is poorly understood. In many cases, treatment is not necessary and the disease will resolve on its own. However, therapies such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and antimalarial drugs, are available to control symptoms, prevent complications, and improve outcomes.