Pulmonary Sarcoidosis: A Pictorial Review

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous process that most commonly involves the lungs. Radiographic findings consistent with sarcoidosis are important to the diagnosis of this disease, as no specific diagnostic test for sarcoidosis exists. The classic imaging manifestations of sarcoidosis are related to granulomatous involvement along the lymphatic pathways within the lungs, granulomatous involvement of lymph nodes, and fibrosis at the sites of previous inflammation. These findings sometimes take atypical forms. Additional manifestations of sarcoidosis are caused by involvement of the bronchi and bronchioles, the pulmonary arteries, and the heart. Fungal colonization may also occur. A range of thoracic imaging manifestations of sarcoidosis is illustrated to facilitate the diagnosis of this common, multifaceted disease.