What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cutaneous Sarcoidosis
• Skin Sarcoidosis

What is Sarcoidosis of Skin? (Definition/Background Information)

• Sarcoidosis of Skin is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 25% of individuals with sarcoidosis. The condition is characterized by the formation of granulomas or small clusters of inflamed cells in the skin
• The exact cause of Sarcoidosis of Skin is unknown, although it is thought to be related to genetic factors and an overactive immune system. The condition is more often seen in young adults, and a preference for females is observed
• The factors that may increase one’s risk for developing Sarcoidosis of Skin include a positive family history of sarcoidosis, exposure to certain environmental triggers, such as dust, chemicals, or infectious agents, and a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication use
• The common signs and symptoms of Skin Sarcoidosis include small bumps on the face, neck, arms, and legs, skin ulcers, itching, and disfiguring scars. Diagnosing Sarcoidosis of Skin may involve physical examinations, blood tests, and a skin biopsy
• The treatment depends on the severity and extent of the disease, as well as the presence of any underlying medical conditions. Treatment measures may include topical corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for mild cases; systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications, or biologic agents may be administered in severe cases
• Currently, there are no available methods to prevent Sarcoidosis of Skin. However, avoiding exposure to known triggers, such as dust, chemicals, or infectious agents, may reduce one’s risk of developing the condition
• The prognosis for Sarcoidosis of Skin varies widely, depending on the severity and extent of the disease. In mild cases, symptoms may resolve on their own or with minimal treatment. In case of severe disease, it may progress and cause permanent skin damage or other complications

Who gets Sarcoidosis of Skin? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Sarcoidosis of Skin can affect individuals of any age, gender, or race/ethnic group
• However, it is more commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 20 and 40
• Women are more likely to develop the condition than men

What are the Risk Factors for Sarcoidosis of Skin? (Predisposing Factors)

There are several factors that may increase the risk for developing Sarcoidosis of Skin. These may include:

• A family history of sarcoidosis
• Exposure to certain environmental triggers, such as dust, chemicals, or infectious agents
• A weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Sarcoidosis of Skin? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Sarcoidosis of Skin is presently unknown.

• However, it is thought to be an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues
• Genetic factors may also play a role in the development of the disease

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sarcoidosis of Skin?

The signs and symptoms of Sarcoidosis of Skin can vary widely, depending on the severity and extent of the disease. The common signs and symptoms include:

• Small, red, or brown bumps or patches on skin, typically on the face, neck, arms, and legs
• Nodules or ulcers on the skin
• Itching

How is Sarcoidosis of Skin Diagnosed?

• A diagnosis of Sarcoidosis of Skin may involve a physical examination, blood tests, and a skin biopsy
• During the skin biopsy, a small sample of skin tissue is removed and examined under a microscope for the presence of granulomas

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Sarcoidosis of Skin?

The complications of Sarcoidosis of Skin may include:

• Emotional distress
• Disfiguring scars
• Permanent skin damage
• The formation of deep ulcers that can lead to infection and other serious medical conditions
• Decreased quality of life

How is Sarcoidosis of Skin Treated?

The treatment of Sarcoidosis of Skin depends on its severity and extent, and the presence of any underlying medical conditions.

• In mild cases, topical corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to relieve symptoms
• In more severe cases, systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications, or biologic agents may be prescribed

How can Sarcoidosis of Skin be Prevented?

• Presently, there are no known measures to prevent Sarcoidosis of Skin
• However, avoiding exposure to known triggers, such as dust, chemicals, or infectious agents, may decrease one’s risk for developing the condition

What is the Prognosis of Sarcoidosis of Skin? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Sarcoidosis of Skin varies widely, depending on the severity and extent of the disease.

• In mild cases, the symptoms may resolve on their own, or following (minimal) treatment
• In more severe cases, the disease may progress and lead to permanent skin damage or other complications

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Sarcoidosis of Skin:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/sarcoidosis/