Neurosarcoidosis

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Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Neurosarcoidosis
File:Blausen 0284 CranialNerves.png
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Facial nerve palsy, headache, seizures, cognitive dysfunction, meningitis
Complications	Chronic pain, hydrocephalus, vision loss, hearing loss
Onset	Typically between ages 20 and 40
Duration	Variable, can be chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, possibly autoimmune disease
Risks	African American ethnicity, family history of sarcoidosis
Diagnosis	MRI, CSF analysis, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Multiple sclerosis, lupus, lymphoma, tuberculosis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, anticonvulsants
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, can be severe
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

File:Neurosarcoidosis MRI pre-post treatment arrows.gif

Neurosarcoidosis MRI pre and post treatment

Neurosarcoidosis is a manifestation of sarcoidosis, a disease of unknown cause characterized by the formation of immune system cells into clumps known as granulomas. When these granulomas form in the nervous system, the condition is referred to as neurosarcoidosis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of neurosarcoidosis are diverse and depend on the area of the nervous system affected. They may include headache, seizures, weakness, numbness, dizziness, vertigo, visual disturbances, and behavioral changes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is challenging due to the wide range of symptoms and the lack of a specific diagnostic test. It is often a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other potential causes of the symptoms must be ruled out first. Diagnostic tests may include MRI, lumbar puncture, and biopsy of affected tissue.

Treatment

Treatment of neurosarcoidosis typically involves medications to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation, such as corticosteroids. Other treatments may be used depending on the specific symptoms and their severity.

Prognosis

The prognosis for neurosarcoidosis varies widely. Some people may experience mild symptoms and require minimal treatment, while others may have severe symptoms that are difficult to manage. The disease can be chronic and progressive, but in some cases, it may go into remission.

See also

• Sarcoidosis
• Granuloma
• Nervous system