Question 1

What is Sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of granulomas (clusters of inflammatory cells) that can affect multiple organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. It is caused by an abnormal immune response that triggers the body to produce excess inflammatory cells in various tissues. The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) test is the most important blood test for monitoring sarcoidosis because granulomas produce large amounts of this enzyme.

Question 2

What causes sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis is caused by an abnormal immune response where the body produces clusters of inflammatory cells called granulomas in various organs. The exact trigger is unknown, but researchers believe it results from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as infections, dust, or chemicals that prompt the immune system to overreact. This overactive immune response leads to the formation of granulomas primarily in the lungs and lymph nodes, though they can develop in almost any organ including the skin, eyes, heart, and nervous system.

Question 3

What is the best test for sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) test is the most important blood test for sarcoidosis because it measures an enzyme that granulomas produce in large amounts, making it an excellent marker for monitoring disease activity. Elevated ACE levels support the diagnosis and help track how the disease is progressing over time. Additional valuable tests include the Lysozyme test, which assesses immune system activation, and the Vitamin D, 1,25-Dihydroxy test, which monitors abnormal vitamin D metabolism that can lead to dangerously high calcium levels. The Interleukin 17 test can provide further insight into the inflammatory process. While no single blood test can definitively diagnose sarcoidosis, these markers together provide crucial information when combined with imaging studies and tissue biopsy.

Question 4

When should I get tested for sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent dry cough that lasts more than a few weeks, unexplained shortness of breath or chest discomfort, unusual fatigue that interferes with daily activities, or skin changes like rashes or nodules. Testing is also important if you have swollen lymph nodes, eye problems such as blurred vision or redness, or if a chest X-ray shows abnormal lung shadows. People with a family history of sarcoidosis or those who notice multiple symptoms affecting different organs should seek testing promptly, as early detection and monitoring can help prevent complications.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis symptoms vary depending on which organs are affected, but the most common signs include persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain since the lungs are typically involved. Many people experience extreme fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and fever. Skin symptoms include rashes, nodules, or color changes, while eye involvement can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision. Some people develop swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, while others experience joint pain and swelling. In more severe cases, sarcoidosis can affect the heart causing irregular heartbeats or the nervous system causing headaches and seizures. Some people have no symptoms at all and discover they have sarcoidosis through routine chest X-rays.

Question 6

Who is at risk for sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis most commonly affects adults between ages 20 and 40, with women having a slightly higher risk than men. African Americans are three times more likely to develop sarcoidosis than whites and tend to have more severe disease. People of Scandinavian, German, Irish, and Puerto Rican descent also have higher rates. Family history plays a significant role, as having a close relative with sarcoidosis increases your risk five times. Certain occupations with exposure to dust, molds, or chemicals may increase risk, including farming, firefighting, and healthcare work. The disease is more prevalent in some geographic regions, particularly the southeastern United States and northern European countries.

Question 7

What happens if sarcoidosis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated sarcoidosis can lead to serious complications, particularly permanent lung damage including pulmonary fibrosis where scar tissue makes breathing increasingly difficult. The disease can cause dangerously high calcium levels that damage the kidneys and lead to kidney stones or kidney failure. Eye complications can progress to glaucoma, cataracts, or even blindness if inflammation goes untreated. When sarcoidosis affects the heart, it can cause life-threatening arrhythmias, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. Neurological involvement can result in seizures, paralysis, or psychiatric problems. While some cases resolve spontaneously, many require treatment to prevent organ damage, making regular monitoring with blood tests essential for tracking disease activity and catching complications early.

Question 8

Can sarcoidosis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis cannot be definitively diagnosed with blood tests alone, but blood work plays a crucial supporting role in the diagnostic process. Tests like ACE, lysozyme, vitamin D levels, and inflammatory markers provide valuable evidence when combined with other findings. A definitive diagnosis typically requires a tissue biopsy showing characteristic granulomas, along with chest imaging that reveals typical patterns of lung and lymph node involvement. Blood tests help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, monitor disease activity once diagnosed, and detect complications like high calcium levels. Your doctor will use blood work as part of a comprehensive evaluation that includes your symptoms, physical examination, imaging studies, and sometimes tissue samples to confirm the diagnosis.

Question 9

How is sarcoidosis treated?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis treatment depends on the severity and which organs are affected, with many mild cases requiring no treatment as they resolve spontaneously within a few years. Corticosteroids like prednisone are the first-line treatment for moderate to severe cases, reducing inflammation and preventing organ damage. For patients who cannot tolerate steroids or need long-term treatment, immunosuppressant medications like methotrexate, azathioprine, or hydroxychloroquine help control the immune response. Newer biologic therapies like infliximab may be used for severe or resistant cases. Treatment also addresses specific complications, such as medications for heart rhythm problems or treatments for high calcium levels. Regular monitoring with blood tests and imaging is essential to assess treatment response and adjust medications as needed.

Question 10

How can I prevent sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

Sarcoidosis cannot be prevented because the exact cause remains unknown, but you can reduce potential triggers and manage risk factors. Minimize exposure to environmental irritants like dust, mold, chemicals, and fumes by using proper protective equipment if your work involves these substances. If you have a family history of sarcoidosis, stay alert to early symptoms and seek medical evaluation promptly if they develop. Maintaining a healthy immune system through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management may help reduce the risk of immune-related conditions. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, as these can worsen lung problems if sarcoidosis develops. Regular health checkups can help detect the condition early when treatment is most effective.

Question 11

What can I do at home for sarcoidosis?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot cure sarcoidosis, several strategies help manage symptoms and support overall health. Get adequate rest and pace your activities to combat fatigue, which is one of the most common symptoms. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids while avoiding excessive vitamin D supplements and calcium-rich foods if your levels are already elevated. Stay physically active with gentle exercises like walking or swimming to maintain lung function and energy levels. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, as stress can worsen inflammation. Protect your skin from sun exposure, avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, and stay hydrated. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider and consistent monitoring through blood tests remain essential for managing the condition effectively.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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Sarcoidosis Blood Test

What is Sarcoidosis?

What causes sarcoidosis?

What is the best test for sarcoidosis?

When should I get tested for sarcoidosis?

References

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