Sarcoidosis of the lacrimal gland: the prominence of the differential diagnosis

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem disease that can involve any organ; lungs, lymph nodes and skin are the most involved. Compatible clinical and imaging features, the identification of non-caseous granulomas on biopsy and the exclusion of other causes of granulomatous disorders help formulate the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. A bilateral symmetrical hilar lymphadenopathy together with the typical perilymphatic distribution of nodules is typically visible on high-resolution CT.The average age is 48 years. Ocular sarcoidosis is not rare, it is reported in 25% of cases. Half of the sarcoidosis patients resolve spontaneously; treatment is only indicated in cases with severe symptoms or signs of organ damage. Classical treatments are based on the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapies, sometimes combined.