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Mohammed Azher

Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, United Kingdom

Title: Extra pulmonary involvement with Sarcoidosis which involves multiple organs

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disorder that can affect multiple organ systems, including the bones. Sarcoidosis bone lesions, although less common than pulmonary or lymphatic involvement, can significantly impact patients' quality of life and functional outcomes. This abstract presents a systematic literature review aimed at assessing the current evidence regarding the management of sarcoidosis bone lesions. A comprehensive search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed and EMBASE, to identify relevant articles published between 2010 and 2023. The search strategy employed a combination of keywords related to sarcoidosis, bone involvement, and management strategies. Articles that focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of sarcoidosis bone lesions were included. The review identified a total of 25 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. The findings highlighted the heterogeneity of clinical presentations of sarcoidosis bone lesions, ranging from asymptomatic findings on imaging to localised pain and fractures. Diagnostic approaches varied, with imaging modalities such as X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) being commonly employed. Pharmacological interventions formed the cornerstone of management, with systemic corticosteroids being the most frequently utilised treatment option. However, the optimal dosage, duration, and tapering regimens remain subjects of debate. Immunosuppressive agents, such as methotrexate and azathioprine, were considered in refractory cases or to facilitate steroid sparing. Bisphosphonates were sometimes employed to address bone loss and promote fracture healing. Surgical interventions, including curettage, bone grafting, and joint replacement, were indicated in selected cases of refractory pain, impending fractures, or joint destruction. However, the decision for surgery was individualised, considering disease activity, patient factors, and functional limitations. The review highlighted the need for a multidisciplinary approach in the management of sarcoidosis bone lesions, involving rheumatologists, pulmonologists, orthopaedic surgeons, and radiologists. Long-term follow-up and monitoring were emphasised to detect disease progression, evaluate treatment response, and manage potential complications. In conclusion, sarcoidosis bone lesions present unique diagnostic and management challenges. While corticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment, the evidence supporting other pharmacological agents and surgical interventions is limited. This study proposes that should bone lesions be identified, further investigations including a full blood screen including ACE and chest x ray should be carried out before submitting the patient to invasive investigations. If suspected, a simple procedure like bronchoscopy/EBUS can provide diagnosis. Further research, including large-scale randomised controlled trials, is warranted to establish standardised management guidelines and improve outcomes in patients with sarcoidosis bone lesions

Biography

Dr Mohammed Azher graduated from King Edward Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan in 1978 and went on to work in various centres across the UK for his general professional and respiratory medicine training. in 1991 he was appointed as a consultant chest physician in Armed Forces Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he was involved in postgraduate education and training. Dr Azher joined Bedford Hospital in 2002 and now also runs his weekly private practice from the Manor Hospital in Biddenham. Dr Azher has a keen interest in postgraduate education and is currently Foundation Programme Director and Royal College tutor for Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. He is also lead respiratory physician for lung cancer and COPD. His research interest involves interstitial lung disease and pulmonary vascular problems.