Cardiac Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a condition in which clusters of immune cells called granulomas form — most commonly in the lungs, but sometimes in the heart. When granulomas affect the heart, they may cause inflammation that can scar heart tissue and disrupt its normal function. Genetics and immune factors are thought to play roles in its development.

Overview and Symptoms

Cardiac sarcoidosis can lead to:

Heart muscle dysfunction
Congestive heart failure
Heart valve problems
Arrhythmias that can cause sudden cardiac arrest

Although cardiac involvement is uncommon compared with pulmonary sarcoidosis, it is clinically important. Cardiac sarcoidosis may present with:

Irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
Shortness of breath
Coughing
Chest tightness
Wheezing
Chest pain (rare)
Leg swelling (in advanced disease)

Other possible signs

Presyncope or syncope (lightheadedness or fainting)
Frequent lung infections
Swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, or eye symptoms when sarcoidosis affects multiple organs

Risk Factors

Race: Higher incidence in African American populations.
Family history: A family member with sarcoidosis increases risk.
Age: Most commonly presents between ages 10 and 45, though it can occur at other ages.

Accurate diagnosis depends on cardiac imaging and tests, including:

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
Echocardiogram
Cardiac PET scan
Cardiac MRI
Endomyocardial biopsy when indicated

Treatment

Comprehensive care at Nano Hospitals

Cardiac sarcoidosis requires multidisciplinary care. Our team includes cardiology, pulmonology, rheumatology, dermatology, ophthalmology and rehabilitation specialists to tailor treatment for each patient.

Immunosuppression: Corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation; steroid-sparing agents (e.g., methotrexate, azathioprine) may be added when needed.
Arrhythmia management: Antiarrhythmic medications, electrophysiology studies, and implantable devices (pacemaker or ICD) when required.
Heart failure treatment: Guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure if systolic dysfunction occurs.
Imaging follow-up: Regular cardiac MRI or PET to monitor disease activity and response to treatment.
Surgical/transplant options: For advanced disease not responsive to medical therapy, heart transplantation may be considered.

Some patients are not suitable for corticosteroids (pregnancy or serious side effects); in such cases we provide alternative immunosuppressive regimens under careful specialist supervision.