Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2010; 31(4): 442-451
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1262212
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Cutaneous Sarcoidosis

Richard M. Marchell1 , Marc A. Judson2
  • 1Department of Dermatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
  • 2Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
27 July 2010 (online)

ABSTRACT

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease with skin manifestations. Skin manifestations are classified as nonspecific if they are not characterized by granulomatous inflammation and specific if the lesions have granulomas histologically. Erythema nodosum is the most common nonspecific skin manifestation, and it portends a good prognosis. Specific skin lesions have a varied clinical appearance, although often they can be distinguished by their yellow translucent character. Despite the potential variable appearance, there are common clinical presentations. Lupus pernio lesions are nodular violaceous specific skin lesions found predominantly on the face associated with scarring and a poor prognosis. Treatment of cutaneous sarcoidosis is primarily done to avoid scarring and cosmetic disfigurement. Local and systemic corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for the disease. Corticosteroid-sparing agents used to manage the disease include antimalarials, methotrexate, and tetracycline antibiotics. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) antagonists such as infliximab may have a role in cutaneous sarcoidosis, especially in refractory cases that are resistant to the standard regimens.

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Richard M MarchellM.D. 

Department of Dermatology, Medical University of South Carolina

135 Rutledge Ave., 11th Fl., P.O. Box 250578, Charleston, SC 29425

Email: marchell@musc.edu

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