Sarcoidosis presenting with an unusual erythematous rash and persistent hypercalcemia

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem disease that often presents with constitutional symptoms and ocular and skin manifestations. The chest roentgenogram may show no abnormalities or only diffuse interstitial disease. The serum calcium level is uncommonly persistently elevated and responds rapidly to low-dose corticosteroid therapy. The level of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D is often elevated, and the level of parathyroid hormone is almost always suppressed. Skin manifestations vary considerably and may appear in an unusual fashion. A skin biopsy may often be essential in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis.