Sarcoidosis: A review of the thoracic and extrathoracic manifestations

Sarcoidosis is a common multisystem disease of unknown cause. Pathologically, it is characterized by the presence of noncaseating granulomas within various organs. Although almost any organ of the body can be involved, up to 90% of patients will have thoracic involvement during the course of the disease. The natural history of sarcoidosis is highly variable, and the clinical symptoms differ depending on the organs involved. Radiologic imaging often plays a major role in obtaining the diagnosis. This review article illustrates the characteristic radiographic and CT findings of thoracic sarcoidosis and provides an overview of the extrathoracic manifestations. The etiology, epidemiology, pathology, and clinical manifestations of sarcoidosis are also reviewed.