Sarcoidosis

Definition:

A granulomatous disease in which inflammation occurs in lymph nodes, lungs, liver, eyes, skin and other tissues

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of the disease is unknown. Possible causes include a hypersensitivity response, a genetic predisposition, or chemicals. The incidence is highest among North Americans of African heritage and Northern European Caucasians. Women of African heritage are affected more than men of African heritage. The onset of the disease usually occurs in people between 30 and 50 years old. The incidence is 2 out of 10,000 people. Sarcoidosis is very rare in young children, if it occurs it is more likely in adolescence.