Childhood sarcoidosis: A rare but fascinating disorder
2008

Childhood Sarcoidosis: A Rare but Fascinating Disorder

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Avinash K Shetty, Abraham Gedalia

Primary Institution: Wake Forest University Health Sciences and Brenner Children's Hospital, Louisiana State University Medical Center and Children's Hospital of New Orleans

Conclusion

Childhood sarcoidosis is a rare condition that can present with various symptoms and has a poorer prognosis in early-onset cases.

Supporting Evidence

  • Childhood sarcoidosis is characterized by a triad of rash, uveitis, and arthritis in early-onset cases.
  • Older children usually present with multisystem disease similar to adult manifestations.
  • The diagnosis is confirmed by demonstrating a typical noncaseating granuloma on a biopsy specimen.
  • Current therapy of choice for multisystem involvement is oral corticosteroids.

Takeaway

Childhood sarcoidosis is a rare disease that can affect many parts of the body, and it can be more serious if it starts when kids are very young.

Methodology

This review discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, etiology, and clinical features of sarcoidosis in children, along with current approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

Limitations

The true incidence and prevalence of childhood sarcoidosis is unknown due to its rarity.

Participant Demographics

Most reported childhood cases have occurred in patients aged 13–15 years, with a higher incidence among African Americans.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1546-0096-6-16

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