Sarcoidosis

Lesions in lung and lymph nodes

09/01/2008 11:39PM

Question:

I was treated last year for what I was told were benign lesions and scar tissue in one lung, pericardium and left side lymph nodes. Treatment ceased in December when advised it was clear. 4 weeks ago, I became ill again with asthmatic symptoms, tenderness in left armpit, lumps in left breast, and extreme fatigue. Had MRI, scans and ultrasounds, now been told the lesions have returned, larger, but benign, and I have nothing to worry about. am now on a course of 8 weeks of varying injections and being told nothing, I am not permitted to see the prescribing doctor as I am a public patient. have read all I can find on lesions of the lung, effects of the severe bronchial and lobar pneumonia suffered as a toddler, but can find nothing which resembles my full range of symptoms..the nearest is sarcoidosis. Weight loss is increasing, as are the cough, tenderness in armpit and breast, and the terrible exhaustion is almost overwhelming. Confusion is rampant!! I cannot afford private health cover and being kept in the dark is creating more stress than I can handle. any suggestions? I am in Qld Australia.

Answer:

I am not informed of the structure of the Australian health system. However, it is my opinion that your healthcare providers are obliged to inform you of your diagnosis and treatment. Based upon your symptoms and the limited medical history provided, sarcoidosis is high on the list of possible causes. However, the diagnosis of sarcoidosis is one of "exclusion", meaning that all other potential causes, such as infection and malignancy, must be considered. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis is best confirmed by sampling (biopsy) of affected tissues.

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Response by:

Elliott D. Crouser, MD
Assistant Professor
Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine
Department of Internal Medicine
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University