All of the following are true for sarcoidosis except:September 2008
**Core Concept**
Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disorder characterized by the formation of non-caseating granulomas in various organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. The exact pathogenesis is unclear, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response to an unknown antigen, leading to the activation of macrophages and the formation of granulomas.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Sarcoidosis typically presents with bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy on chest radiographs, and the lymph nodes are often involved in the granulomatous process. The disease can affect any organ, but it commonly involves the lungs, skin, eyes, and liver. The presence of non-caseating granulomas is diagnostic, and the disease can be treated with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prevent organ damage. The Lofgren syndrome is a classic presentation of sarcoidosis, characterized by fever, erythema nodosum, and bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This statement is typically true for sarcoidosis, as it often presents with non-caseating granulomas in the lungs and lymph nodes.
**Option B:** This statement is also true, as sarcoidosis can affect any organ, including the skin, eyes, and liver.
**Option C:** This statement is not true for sarcoidosis, as it is characterized by non-caseating granulomas, not caseating granulomas.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Sarcoidosis can be challenging to diagnose, but the presence of non-caseating granulomas on histopathology is diagnostic. It is essential to consider sarcoidosis in the differential diagnosis of patients with bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms.
**Correct Answer: C. Caseating granulomas are characteristic of tuberculosis, not sarcoidosis.**