Relative incidence of interstitial lung diseases in Brazil / Incidência relativa de doenças pulmonares intersticiais no Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the relative frequency of incident cases of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) in Brazil. Methods: This was a retrospective survey of new cases of ILD in six referral centers between January of 2013 and January of 2020. The diagnosis of ILD followed the criteria suggested by international bodies or was made through multidisciplinary discussion (MDD). The condition was characterized as unclassifiable ILD when there was no specific final diagnosis following MDD or when there was disagreement between clinical, radiological, or histological data. Results: The sample comprised 1,406 patients (mean age = 61 ± 14 years), and 764 (54%) were female. Of the 747 cases exposed to hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP)-related antigens, 327 (44%) had a final diagnosis of HP. A family history of ILD was reported in 8% of cases. HRCT findings were indicative of fibrosis in 74% of cases, including honeycombing, in 21%. Relevant autoantibodies were detected in 33% of cases. Transbronchial biopsy was performed in 23% of patients, and surgical lung biopsy, in 17%. The final diagnoses were: connective tissue disease-associated ILD (in 27%), HP (in 23%), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (in 14%), unclassifiable ILD (in 10%), and sarcoidosis (in 6%). Diagnoses varied significantly among centers (c2 = 312.4; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings show that connective tissue disease-associated ILD is the most common ILD in Brazil, followed by HP. These results highlight the need for close collaboration between pulmonologists and rheumatologists, the importance of detailed questioning of patients in regard with potential exposure to antigens, and the need for public health campaigns to stress the importance of avoiding such exposure.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a frequência relativa de casos incidentes de doenças pulmonares intersticiais (DPI) no Brasil. Métodos: Levantamento retrospectivo de casos novos de DPI em seis centros de referência entre janeiro de 2013 e janeiro de 2020. O diagnóstico de DPI seguiu os critérios sugeridos por órgãos internacionais ou foi feito por meio de discussão multidisciplinar (DMD). A condição foi caracterizada como DPI não classificável quando não houve um diagnóstico final específico após a DMD ou houve discordância entre dados clínicos, radiológicos ou histológicos. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 1.406 pacientes (média de idade = 61 ± 14 anos), sendo 764 (54%) do sexo feminino. Dos 747 casos expostos a antígenos para pneumonite de hipersensibilidade (PH), 327 (44%) tiveram diagnóstico final de PH. Houve relato de história familiar de DPI em 8% dos casos. Os achados de TCAR foram indicativos de fibrose em 74% dos casos, incluindo faveolamento, em 21%. Autoanticorpos relevantes foram detectados em 33% dos casos. Biópsia transbrônquica foi realizada em 23% dos pacientes, e biópsia pulmonar cirúrgica, em 17%. Os diagnósticos finais foram: DPI associada à doença do tecido conjuntivo (em 27%), PH (em 23%), fibrose pulmonar idiopática (em 14%), DPI não classificável (em 10%) e sarcoidose (em 6%). Os diagnósticos variaram significativamente entre os centros (c2 = 312,4; p < 0,001). Conclusões: Nossos achados mostram que DPI associada à doença do tecido conjuntivo é a DPI mais comum no Brasil, seguida pela PH. Esses resultados destacam a necessidade de uma estreita colaboração entre pneumologistas e reumatologistas, a importância de fazer perguntas detalhadas aos pacientes a respeito da potencial exposição a antígenos e a necessidade de campanhas de saúde pública destinadas a enfatizar a importância de evitar essa exposição.

Neurosarcoidosis: inicio con compromiso de múltiples sitios neurológicos / Neurosarcoidosis: Onset with involvement of multiple neurological sites

Resumen Presentamos el caso de una mujer joven sana, que consultó por parálisis facial periférica izquierda asociada a fiebre, tos seca, disnea y astenia de dos semanas de evolución. Al examen físico se evidenció hipoestesia en dermatomas D6 a D12 izquierdos y galactorrea bi lateral. En el laboratorio presentaba serologías virales negativas, eritrosedimentación, títulos de anticuerpos antinucleares, prolactina y hormona tiroestimulante elevados, con anticuerpos antiperoxidasa positivos. La tomografía computarizada mostró múltiples adenopatías cervicales, mediastinales e hiliares bilaterales, sin com promiso del parénquima pulmonar. El cultivo de líquido cefalorraquídeo fue negativo para gérmenes comunes, micobacterias (Xpert MTB/RIF), y la citología no mostró atipia. Se realizó una resonancia magnética con con traste endovenoso de cerebro sin hallazgos patológicos y de columna con alteración de la señal centromedular de D6 a D9 de casi la totalidad del espesor del cordón, con refuerzo con contraste endovenoso. Durante la in ternación recuperó la sensibilidad en tronco izquierdo y no repitió episodios febriles o tusígenos. Se realizó mediastinoscopía con biopsia ganglionar con anatomía patológica con presencia de numerosos granulomas no caseificantes compatibles con sarcoidosis. Se clasificó como neurosarcoidosis probable e inició tratamiento con corticoides con mejoría de los síntomas neurológi cos restantes, realizándose una resonancia magnética a los tres meses, donde la alteración de la señal se limitaba desde D7 a D8. Nuestro objetivo es destacar la presentación neurológica en múltiples sitios que obligó a descartar otras entidades más frecuentes, así como la evolución favorable incluso previo al inicio de un esquema de tratamiento de primera línea.

Abstract We present the case of a healthy young woman who consulted for left peripheral facial palsy associated with fever, dry cough, dyspnea, and asthenia of two weeks' evolution. Physical examination revealed hypoesthesia in left T6 to T12 dermatomes and bilateral galactorrhea. In the laboratory, she presented negative viral serology, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, antinuclear an tibody titers, prolactin and thyroid-stimulating hormone, with positive antiperoxidase antibodies. Computed to mography showed multiple bilateral cervical, mediastinal, and hilar adenopathies, without involvement of lung parenchyma. Cerebrospinal fluid culture was negative for common germs, mycobacteria, and Xpert MTB/RIF, and cytology did not show atypia. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance was performed on the brain without pathological findings and on the spine with alteration of the centromedullary signal from T6 to T9 of almost the entire thickness of the cord, with posterior enhancement with gadolinium. During hospitalization, she recovered sensitivity in the left trunk and did not repeat febrile or cough episodes. She was referred to another center for mediastinoscopy with lymph node biopsy revealing the presence of numerous non-caseating granulomas compatible with sarcoidosis. It was classified as probable neurosarcoidosis and started treatment with corticoste roids with improvement of the remaining neurological symptoms. A magnetic resonance was performed three months later where the signal alteration was limited from T7 to T8. Our objective is to highlight the florid neu rological presentation that made it necessary to rule out other more frequent entities and the favorable evolution even before starting a first-line scheme of treatment.

Granulomatous hepatitis, deciphering an elusive spectrum: a clinical case-based approach

Granulomatous hepatitis is a well-defined histopathologic entity characterized by aggregates of modified macrophages (epithelioid in appearance) and other inflammatory cells that accumulate after persistent exposure to antigens. It induces a cellular immune response mediated by the release of various cytokines (including interferon-gamma [INF-γ], tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], and interleukin 12 [IL-12]) that stimulate mononuclear cell fusion, culminating in the formation of multinucleated giant cells with a surrounding border of lymphocytes and fibroblasts. It represents between 2% and 15% of all pathological liver studies, usually during an infiltrative or cholestatic biochemical pattern. A practical approach is proposed based on a challenging clinical case of a patient with a fever of unknown origin in an intermediate incidence area for tuberculosis, such as Colombia.

La hepatitis granulomatosa es una entidad histopatológica bien definida que se caracteriza por la presencia de agregados de macrófagos modificados (de aspecto epitelioide) y otras células inflamatorias que se acumulan luego de la exposición persistente a antígenos, lo que induce una respuesta inmunitaria celular mediada por la liberación de varias citocinas (entre las que se destacan el interferón gamma [INF-γ], el factor de necrosis tumoral alfa [TNF-α] y la interleucina 12 [IL-12]) que estimulan la fusión de células mononucleares para culminar en la formación de células gigantes multinucleadas con un borde circundante de linfocitos y fibroblastos. Representa entre el 2 % y el 15 % de todos los estudios anatomopatológicos de hígado, en el curso por lo general de un patrón bioquímico de tipo infiltrativo o colestásico. Se propone un enfoque práctico a partir de un caso clínico retador de un paciente con fiebre de origen desconocido en una zona de incidencia intermedia para tuberculosis, como lo es Colombia.

Implementation of positron emission tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose associated with computed tomography in patients with sarcoidosis. Its effect on disease staging and the therapeutic approach

Objetives: to evaluate the benefit of implementing 18F-FDG PET/TC in the staging and treatment adjustment of patients with sarcoidosis, compared with the signs and symptoms and complementary test results usually employed. Materials and methods: an observational, analytical electronic chart review of a retrospective cohort of patients seen for sarcoidosis in the internal medicine department of a Spanish university hospital. Results: a total of 31 patients (18 males) were evaluated, with an average age of 54.6±14.71 years and 11±5.75 years since their sarcoidosis diagnosis. In the 84.6% of the reviews, positive uptake was objectified on the 18F-FDG PET/TC. In the 42.3% of the occasions, the objectified find ing allowed restaging of the patient. The 18F-FDG PET/TC result justified the choice of treatment in the 71% of the reviews. Conclusions: 18F-FDG PET/TC provided additional advantages in the staging and therapeutic management of patients with sarcoidosis, compared with the evaluation of signs and symptoms and other clinical tests usually employed in follow up, due to its greater accuracy in determining the activity and extension of the disease. (Acta Med Colomb 2022; 48. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36104/amc.2023.2778).

Evaluation of Immunoglobulin Levels in Lavage Fluid in Active and Inactive Disease

Background: Fluid obtained by whole gut lavage usually contains traces of immunoglobulin (lg) G, albumin, and a-1-antitrypsin; higher concentrations have been found in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Immunoglobulin (lg) levels increase in the lower respiratory tract of patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis. The aim of this study is to assess the Evaluation of immunoglobulin levels in lavage fluid in active and inactive disease. Material & Methods: This is an observational study. The study used to be carried out in the admitted patient’s Department of microbiology and immunology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh. In Bangladesh for the duration of the period from October 2015 to March 2017. Results: This study shows that the according to age of 33 Patients aged 1 to 9 years. Here according to Age distribution, 2(6.1%) were 1-3 years, 10(30.30%) were >3 6 years, 9(27.27%) were >6-9 years and 12(36.4%) were >9 years. And according to gender 13(39.4%) were Male and 20(60.6%) were Female. Conclusion: The study concluded that high and abnormal levels of immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM, and IgA) is present among JIA patient in active disease state which became normal in inactive state.

Systemic sarcoidosis presenting as acute rapidly progressive proptosis / Sarcoidose sistêmica apresentando-se como proptose aguda rapidamente progressiva

ABSTRACT Sarcoidosis is a generalized systemic chronic inflammation that rarely involves the orbit. As a chronic inflammation, sarcoidosis typically manifests with an insidious onset and slowly progressive course. We report a case of acute-onset proptosis resulting from a rapidly growing diffuse orbital mass that simulated malignant growth, which was biopsy proven to be the first manifestation of systemic sarcoidosis. The patient demonstrated complete resolution of proptosis and systemic involvement with long-term corticosteroid treatment.

RESUMO A sarcoidose é uma inflamação sistêmica generalizada que raramente envolve a órbita. Sendo uma inflamação crônica, a sarcoidose geralmente se manifesta com um início insidioso e uma evolução lentamente progressiva. Neste artigo, é relatado um caso de proptose de início agudo, resultante de uma massa orbitária difusa de rápido crescimento, simulando um crescimento maligno, mas cuja biópsia comprovou ser a primeira manifestação de uma sarcoidose sistêmica. O paciente apresentou resolução completa da proptose e do envolvimento sistêmico com tratamento de longo prazo com corticosteroides.

Sarcoidosis cutánea. Presentación de un caso

La sarcoidosis es una enfermedad granulomatosa sistémica de causa desconocida, con mayor prevalencia en el sexo femenino, entre los 20 a 40 años de edad; caracterizada por la formación de granulomas no caseificantes en distintos órganos. La afectación cutánea de forma exclusiva es rara, pues se describe solo en el 4-5 % de los pacientes, ya que las lesiones en piel pueden aparecer antes o después del compromiso sistémico, o bien coincidir con este. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 35 años con lesiones en piel de cuatro años de evolución. Considerando el cuadro clínico y la histopatología, se concluyó con el diagnóstico de sarcoidosis cutánea, crónica y asintomática. Se trata de una enfermedad muy polimorfa en sus manifestaciones cutáneas, lo cual la convierte en una gran simuladora, y su diagnóstico constituye un reto para el dermatólogo.

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown cause, with a higher prevalence in females, between 20 and 40 years of age; characterized by the formation of non-caseating granulomas in different organs. Exclusive skin involvement is rare, as it is described in only 4-5% of patients, since skin lesions may appear before or after systemic involvement, or coincide with it. The case of a 35-years-old patient with skin lesions of four years of evolution is presented. Considering the clinical case and histopathology, the diagnosis of chronic and asymptomatic cutaneous sarcoidosis was concluded. It is a very polymorphic disease in its skin manifestations, which makes it a great simulator, and its diagnosis constitutes a challenge for the dermatologist.

Dermoscopy of cutaneous sarcoidosis: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Although traditionally used for the diagnosis of skin tumors, in the past few years dermoscopy as a clinical diagnostic aid for inflammatory and infectious skin manifestations has also received more and more attention. The clinical variability of cutaneous sarcoidosis (CS) often makes its correct diagnosis challenging. Dermoscopy can be used as an auxiliary examination method. Objective Our aim was to evaluate the role of dermoscopy in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of CS. Methods This was a retrospective analysis of 39 CS clinical and dermoscopic images collected in the Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated with Fudan University from August 2013 to February 2021. Results Retrospective dermoscopic evaluation revealed small grouped, translucent orange globular structures in all 39 cases. Variable diameter linear vessels were found in 38 cases. A central scar-like area was seen in 26 cases. Bright white streaks were seen in 30 cases. The follicular plugs were seen in 15 cases. Study limitations First, the number of cutaneous sarcoidosis cases the authors collected is small. Second, due to the lack of a control group, the sensitivity and specificity of the proposed criteria were not calculated. Finally, since our study mainly includes suspicious lesions that were biopsied for diagnostic purposes, there may be a selection bias. Conclusion Lesions showing on dermoscopy grouped translucent orange ovoid structures associated with linear vessels should raise the suspicion of CS. Central scar-like areas and bright white streaks are also helpful in the diagnosis of CS.

Analysis of 8 Cases of Blau Syndrome/Early-onset Sarcoidosis——Clinical Manifestations, Histopathology Features and Gene Mutation Diversity / 罕见病研究

  Objective  To summarize the clinical manifestations, pathological features and gene mutation diversity of Blau syndrome/early-onset sarcoidosis.  Methods  We collected general data, clinical manifestations, and auxiliary examination results from 8 patients who were diagnosed of Blau syndrome/early-onset sarcoidosis and treated in our hospital from January 2011 to December 2022, and then summarized and analyzed their characteristics and diversity.  Results  Among the 8 patients, 4 were males and 4 were females. The onset age was 3 to 8 months old. Rash was the first symptom in 7 patients(87.5%). 6 patients(75.0%) had papules and erythema.3 cases(37.5%) had arthritis. 2 cases(25.0%) had uveitis and other eye inflammation. 4 cases (50.0%) also showed intermittent fever. 3 cases (37.5%) showed symptoms in nerve and respiratory system, and hypertension respectively. The skin histopathology of 8 patients showed non-caseous granuloma formation. In laboratory detection, CRP and TNF-α were significantly increased before treatment, while IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and IL-2 receptor(IL-2R) were significantly decreased in 5 patients after glucocorticoid therapy. The results of genetic testing showed that 4 of the 7 patients had p.R334W(c.1000C > T) mutation, 1 had p.H313R(c.938A > G) and p.R471C(c.1411C > T)double mutation, and 1 had p.476_477del (c.1427_1429delcct).  Conclusions  Blau syndrome/early-onset sarcoidosis has significant features in clinical manifestations, histopathology and gene mutation, but it also has diversity.

Clinical features of patients with connective tissue disease combined with sarcoidosis / 中华风湿病学杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical features of patients with coexisting connective tissue disease (CTD) and sarcoisosis and to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment.Methods:To analyze the clinical manifestations, laboratory data, imaging and pathological features of patients with CTD combined with sarcoidosis in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 1985 to December 2021.Results:There were 17 patients with CTD(including 10 SS, 2 DM, 2 PBC, 1 SLE, 1 RA and 1 UCTD), combined with sarcoidosis, with a mean age of (55±10) years old and the ratio of male-to-female was 1:16. Eight patients were diagnosed as CTD before sarcoidosis, while 3 patients after sarcoidosis. The other 6 patients were diagnosed with the two diseases almost simultaneously. Lymphadenopathy(12/17), pulmonary nodules (8/17), subcutaneous nodules (4/17), rash (4/17) and blurred vision (1/17) were the main manifestations of patients with the onset of nodular disease. Nine patients were treated based on the presentation of sardoisis and 5 patients for CTD; 3 patients were treated for both diseases at the same time. All 17 patients discharged with improvement after treatment.Conclusion:When sarcoidosis do coexists with CTD, occult CTD might occur. It is important to investigate specific manifestations including pathological features of sarcoidosis and differentiate it from CTD.

The relationship between erythema nodosum and prognosis in systemic sarcoidosis: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract Background: Erythema Nodosum (EN) is the most common skin manifestation in sarcoidosis and has often been associated with a good prognosis. Objectives: To compare the clinical characteristics and treatment-related features in patients with sarcoidosis according to whether or not EN was seen as a presenting symptom at the time of diagnosis. Methods: A 20-year single-center retrospective study was performed. The following two groups were identified: one group with EN as one of the presenting symptoms at the time of diagnosis of sarcoidosis (EN group) and a second group without EN as a presenting symptom at diagnosis (non-EN group). The clinical characteristics and treatment modalities were collected from the medical records. Results: A total of 122 patients (31 in the EN group, 91 in the non-EN group) were included. Radiological stages of pulmonary disease were significantly lower in the EN group. Articular involvement was more common in the EN group (p = 0.001), whereas other systemic organ involvements (p = 0.025), especially neurological involvement (p = 0.036), were significantly more common in the non-EN group. In the EN group, a higher percentage of patients were managed without systemic therapy (71.0% vs. 54.9%) and spontaneous remission was more frequent (25.0% vs. 14.1%), however, this wasn't statistically significant. Study limitations: Retrospective design. Conclusions: The lower radiological stage of pulmonary sarcoidosis and lower frequency of systemic organ involvement in patients with EN augment the prognostic value of EN highlighted in the literature. However, this study couldn't confirm that the patients with EN would need less systemic therapy in the course of their disease.

Controversias en neuroinmunología: esclerosis múltiple, vacunación, SARS-CoV-2 y otros dilemas / Controversies in neuroimmunology: multiple sclerosis, vaccination, SARS-CoV-2 and other dilemas

La neuroinmunología es una disciplina que cada vez amplía más sus horizontes en la comprensión de las enfermedades neurológicas. Contemporáneamente, y a la luz de los nexos fisiopatológicos de las enfermedades neurológicas y la inmunología, se han planteado enfoques diagnósticos y terapéuticos específicos. A pesar de los importantes avances de esta disciplina, existen múltiples dilemas que le conciernen y se filtran en la práctica clínica. En esta revisión, se presentan y discuten 15 controversias, las cuales se construyen con la información clínica disponible más actualizada. Los temas incluidos son: disminución de esteroides en recaídas de esclerosis múltiple; recomendaciones terapéuticas en esclerosis múltiple a la luz de la pandemia por el SARS-CoV-2; evidencia de vacunación en esclerosis múltiple y en otras enfermedades desmielinizantes; panorama actual del síndrome clínico y radiológico aislado; y fallas terapéuticas en esclerosis múltiple; además, criterios para suspender las terapias modificadoras de la enfermedad; evidencia del manejo en recaídas leves; recomendaciones para la profilaxis contra Strongyloides stercolaris; utilidad de un segundo ciclo de inmunoglobulina en el síndrome de Guillain-Barré; criterios para diferenciar una polineuropatía crónica desmielinizante inflamatoria de inicio agudo de un síndrome de Guillain-Barré y, utilidad de la enzima convertidora de angiotensina en neurosarcoidosis. En cada una de las controversias, se presenta la problemática general y se ofrecen recomendaciones específicas que pueden adoptarse en la práctica clínica diaria.

Neuroimmunology is a discipline that increasingly broadens its horizons in the understanding of neurological diseases. At the same time, and in front of the pathophysiological links of neurological diseases and immunology, specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have been proposed. Despite the important advances in this discipline, there are multiple dilemmas that concern and filter into clinical practice. This article presents 15 controversies and a discussion about them, which are built with the most up-to-date evidence available. The topics included in this review are: steroid decline in relapses of multiple sclerosis; therapeutic recommendations in MS in light of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic; evidence of vaccination in multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases; overview current situation of isolated clinical and radiological syndrome; therapeutic failure in multiple sclerosis, as well as criteria for suspension of disease-modifying therapies; evidence of the management of mild relapses in multiple sclerosis; recommendations for prophylaxis against Strongyloides stercolaris; usefulness of a second course of immunoglobulin in the Guillain-Barré syndrome; criteria to differentiate an acute-onset inflammatory demyelinating chronic polyneuropathy versus Guillain-Barré syndrome; and, the utility of angiotensin-converting enzyme in neurosarcoidosis. In each of the controversies, the general problem is presented, and specific recommendations are offered that can be adopted in daily clinical practice.

El secreto que revelan los ojos. Compromiso ocular como manifestación de enfermedades sistémicas no infecciosas / The secret revealed by the eyes. Ocular involvement as a manifestation of non-infectious systemic diseases

La coroides es el tejido ocular más comúnmente afectado por la enfermedad metastásica debido a su abundante vascularización y, en ocasiones, la primera manifestación (44-70% según las series) de cáncer de pulmón en hombres o de cáncer de mama en mujeres (3%). Síntomas oculares de inicio abrupto en pacientes jóvenes y signos al examen oftalmológico como engrosamiento de la pared posterior o lumpy-bumpy surface, entre otros, son orientativos. La uveítis anterior granulomatosa, la uveítis intermedia bilateral, la panuveitis bilateral o las lesiones granulomatosas a nivel coroideo o del nervio óptico se consideran indicativas de sarcoidosis en presencia de un cuadro radiológico compatible. Estas pueden preceder a los signos sistémicos en un 30% de los casos. Se presentan tres pacientes con signos y síntomas oftalmológicos que precedieron al diagnóstico de enfermedades sistémicas no infecciosas.

The choroid is the ocular tissue most commonly affected by metastatic disease due to its abundant vascularization and is sometimes the first manifestation (44-70% depending on the series) of lung cancer in men or breast cancer in women (3%). Abrupt-onset ocular symptoms in young patients and signs on ophthalmological examination such as thickening of the posterior wall, "lumpy-bumpy surface", among others, are indicative. Granulomatous anterior uveitis, bilateral intermediate uveitis, bilateral panuveitis or granulomatous lesions at the choroidal or optic nerve level are considered indicative of sarcoidosis in the presence of a compatible radiological picture. These may precede systemic signs in 30% of cases. We present 3 patients with ophthalmological signs and symptoms that preceded the diagnosis of non-infectious systemic diseases.

Systemic sarcoidosis presenting as facial palsy, granulomatous tattoo reaction and sarcoidal scar

Cutaneous lesions are observed in approximately 25% of patients with systemic sarcoidosis. Scar sarcoidosis is a rare but peculiar cutaneous form of sarcoidosis associated with trauma, surgery, tattoos and other types of damage. We present a 32-year-old male patient with a history of unilateral facial nerve palsy, nephrolithiasis and lung involvement. A chest CT revealed multiple bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy and PET-CT demonstrated an inflammatory response in multiple organs and regions. Recently, the patient had developed asymptomatic papulo-nodules scattered within the areas of tattoos and previous trauma. Histopathological examination of nodules from those different areas supported the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. The lesions almost cleared after systemic therapy with oral prednisone. It is worth remembering that skin lesions in areas of tattoos and trauma may be prominent symptoms of systemic sarcoidosis. Patients with systemic sarcoidosis should avoid tattooing.

Pragmatic Real-world Approach to Treat Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Disease in Logistically Constraint Situations: A Proposition

Understanding the etiology and the tempo of progression with inexorable and self-perpetuating fibrosis [identification of progressive-fibrotic (PF) phenotype of interstitial lung disease (ILD) (PF-ILD)] can help to decide the treatment of diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD) in the real-world practice. An evidence-supported pragmatic approach has been forwarded for such circumstances.

Epidemiological characterization of patients with sarcoidosis in a high complexity hospital in southwestern Colombia

Introduction: Epidemiological studies on sarcoidosis in Colombia are scarce, and although recent reports from the north of the country have been published, clinical-epidemiological associations are not clear. Our aim was to characterize patients with sarcoidosis diagnosed at Fundación Valle del Lili in Cali, Colombia. Methods: A retrospective study of a series of sarcoidosis cases was conducted between 2011 and 2019. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, imaging, histopathological, and treatment variables were analyzed. Results: A total of 34 patients with a diagnosis of sarcoidosis were found. The majority were women (n = 25; 73%), and the mean age was 50 years. The main symptoms of onset were erythema nodosum (n = 11; 33%), arthritis (n = 10; 30%), and cough (n = 9; 27%). In 64% of the cases, there was pulmonary involvement, with pulmonary nodules, mediastinal adenopathy, and interstitial lung disease found in 54%, 50%, and 36% of cases, respectively. In 85% of cases, there were extrapulmonary manifestations, mainly cutaneous (50%). Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) was elevated in 62% of the cases in which it was measured (n = 16; 47%). During the diagnostic process, 23 biopsies were performed, of which 95% showed granulomas with noncaseating necrosis. Most of the patients (76%) were controlled with prednisolone, at an average dose of 20 mg (7.5-50 mg) per day. Conclusions: Sarcoidosis was more frequent in women and mestizos, and it presented earlier in men. Elevated ACE was not associated with extrapulmonary involvement. Calcium-phosphorus profile and antinuclear antibodies were not useful to establish the diagnosis.

Introducción: En Colombia son escasos los estudios epidemiológicos sobre la sarcoidosis; aunque recientemente se han publicado reportes del norte del país, son grupos muestrales pequeños, por lo que no quedan claras las asociaciones clínico-epidemiológicas. Nuestro objetivo fue caracterizar pacientes con sarcoidosis en la Fundación Valle del Lili, en Cali, Colombia. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de una serie de casos de sarcoidosis entre el 2011 y el 2019. Se analizaron variables demográficas, clínicas, de laboratorio, imagenológicas, histopatológicas y de tratamiento. Resultados: Se encontraron 34 pacientes con diagnóstico de sarcoidosis, la mayoría fueron mujeres (n = 25; 73%), y la edad promedio fue 50 anos. Los principales síntomas de inicio fueron eritema nudoso (n = 11; 33%), artritis (n = 10; 30%) y tos (n = 9; 27%). En el 64% de los casos hubo compromiso pulmonar, y se encontraron nódulos pulmonares, adenopatías mediastinales y enfermedad pulmonar intersticial en un 54, 50 y 36% de los casos, respectivamente. En el 85% de los casos hubo manifestaciones extrapulmonares, principalmente cutáneas (50%). Los niveles de enzima conversora de angiotensina estuvieron elevados en el 62% de los casos en los que fue medida (n = 16; 47%). Durante el proceso diagnóstico se realizaron 23 biopsias, de las cuales el 95% evidenció granulomas con necrosis no caseificante. La mayoría de los pacientes (76%) fueron controlados con prednisolona, a una dosis promedio de 20 mg (7,5-50 mg) por día. Conclusiones: La sarcoidosis fue más frecuente en mujeres y mestizos. La presentación fue más temprana en hombres. La enzima conversora de angiotensina no se relacionó con compromiso extrapulmonar. Ni el perfil fósforo-calcio ni los anticuerpos antinucleares fueron útiles para establecer el diagnóstico.

A case of subcutaneous sarcoidosis in a patient with Cushing's syndrome

Abstract A 41-year-old female visited our department complaining of asymptomatic subcutaneous nodules on the right forearm. She had been diagnosed as having Cushing syndrome due to an adrenal tumor 5-months previously. After she underwent surgery for the adrenal tumor, the subcutaneous nodules gradually increased in number. Physical examination showed ill-defined plate-like subcutaneous indurations on the bilateral lower extremities, buttocks, and right forearm. A biopsy of one of the subcutaneous indurations showed non-caseating epithelioid cell granulomas involving the hypodermis and subcutaneous tissues. The patient was diagnosed as having sarcoidosis based on the Japan Society of Sarcoidosis and Other Granulomatous Disorders 2015 criteria. Skin lesions decreased in size and had completely disappeared. Although the mechanism is unknown, there may be a possibility that the activity of sarcoidosis is suppressed by high cortisol concentrations due to Cushing syndrome.

Bone sarcoidosis: an unusual manifestation / Sarcoidosis ósea: una manifestación inusual

ABSTRACT Sarcoidosis is a multi-system disease that involves the lung in 90% of cases. Skeletomuscular involvement of sarcoidosis may involve joints, muscles and/or bones, the latter affecting 313% of patients. Its clinical presentation is asymptomatic in half of the cases, in the other half there is pain, soft tissue edema, and decreased limb function. Radiographically it is accompanied by osteolysis, osteosclerosis, cystic lesions and pathological fractures in advanced stages. A final diagnosis is made by tissue biopsy, finding non-caseating granulomatous process accompanied by Langhans giant cells. The main indication of medical management is the control of symptoms, associated with an improvement in the functioning of the affected limb and quality of life of the patient. The case is presented of a patient with digital sarcoidosis with classic radiographic pattern with no other extra-skeletal involvement.

RESUMEN La sarcoidosis es una enfermedad multisistémica que involucra en el 90% de los casos el pulmón. El compromiso osteomuscular de la sarcoidosis puede incluir articulaciones, músculos o huesos; este último caso afecta al 3-13% de los pacientes. Su presentación clínica es asintomática en la mitad de los casos, el restante se presenta con dolor, edema de tejidos blandos y disminución en la funcionalidad de la extremidad. Radiográficamente se acompaña de osteólisis, osteoesclerosis, lesiones quísticas y fracturas patológicas en estadios avanzados. Su diagnóstico definitivo se realiza por medio de una biopsia tisular, en la que se encuentra un proceso granulomatoso no caseificante acompañado de células gigantes de Langhans. La principal indicación del manejo médico es el control de los síntomas, lo que se asocia con una mejoría en el funcionamiento de la extremidad afectada y en la calidad de vida del paciente. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con sarcoidosis digital con patrón radiográfico clásico, sin otro compromiso extraesquelético.

Reacción granulomatosa de tipo sarcoideo secundaria a biopolímeros: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Biopolymer sarcoid-like foreign-body granulomas: Case report and literature review

La alogenosis iatrogénica es la enfermedad causada por la aplicación de biopolímeros con fines estéticos. Sus manifestaciones clínicas pueden presentarse entre las seis horas y los 30 años posteriores a la aplicación, con síntomas locales o sistémicos. El principal rasgo de la histopatología es la presencia de granulomas por cuerpo extraño con reacción de tipo sarcoideo, la cual es difícil de Interpretar por su asociación con la sarcoidosis. Se reporta aquí el caso de una paciente con lesiones granulomatosas de tipo sarcoideo por reacción a cuerpo extraño, secundaria a la aplicación de múltiples sustancias desconocidas en cara y glúteos.

Iatrogenic allogenosis is a disease caused by the injection of biopolymers with esthetic purposes. Clinical manifestations can occur between six hours and 30 years after the procedure with local and/or systemic symptoms. The pathological findings are characterized by the presence of foreign body granulomas with a sarcoid-like reaction. Its Interpretation Is difficult given Its association with sarcoidosis. We report the clinical case of a female patient with granulomatous lesions In reaction to a foreign body secondary to the multiple application of unknown substances on the face and buttocks.

Inpatient characteristics, complications, and outcomes of patients with cardiac sarcoidosis: A study from the National Inpatient Sample

Although seen in ~5% of sarcoidosis patients, cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) accounts for nearly 25% of diseaserelated deaths. This study aimed to describe characteristics and outcomes among CS patients. Patients diagnosed with CS in 2016e2017 in the US National Inpatient Sample Database were evaluated to study patient characteristics, reasons ascribed to admission, in-hospital outcomes, and complications. A total of 2420 patients (median age 56 years) were included in the analysis. Most admissions occurred due to ventricular tachycardia (12.8%), followed by myocarditis (9.9%) with a mean length of stay of 7 ± 7 days. The overall incidence of in-hospital mortality was 2.5%