Clinical manifestations of neurosarcoidosis

Abstract

Introduction. Sarcoidosis affects the central nervous system more frequently than it was previously believed. Since the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is often delayed, it may result in serious complications. Being non-specific when present, the symptoms may be subtle and resemble those of other neurological diseases. While the cranial nerves are most frequently affected, neurosarcoidosis can involve other nervous system tissues including the meninges, brain parenchyma (especially the hypothalamic region), spinal cord, peripheral nerve and muscle. Discussion and Review of Literature. During the past decade, a significant progress was made in understanding the epidemiology and pathophysiology of neurosarcoidosis, as well as the possibility to diagnose and treat this disease. Studies have shown that the optimal diagnostic imaging modality for neurosarcoidosis is magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium because it enhances visualization of granulomatous infiltration in neural tissue. Subclinical neurosarcoidosis may not be uncommon in patients with sarcoidosis. It is now evident that neurosarcoidosis does not invariably present as a catastrophic event. Adverse effects associated with high-dose systemic corticosteroids, the standard therapy, have discouraged practitioners from initiating treatment in the absence of significant symptomatic neurological disease. However, other immunosuppressive agents as well newer biologic agents have emerged as an effective, well-tolerated therapeutic alternative to corticosteroids, which are often effective in corticosteroid- recalcitrant cases. Conclusion. Neurosarcoidosis, as a localized granulomatous disease, is possible and not so rare. Early recognition of neurological involvement in patients with undiagnosed or diagnosed sarcoidosis is crucial to prevent complications, which can sometimes be life-threatening. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 175046 i br. 175081]