Abdominal CT findings in sarcoidosis: radiologic and clinical correlation

Abstract

Purpose: To estimate the prevalence of abdominal computed tomographic (CT) findings in sarcoidosis and to correlate these findings with those at chest radiography, clinical status, and level of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE).

Materials and methods: Abdominal CT examinations in 59 patients with sarcoidosis were evaluated for adenopathy, liver and spleen size, and discrete lesions within the liver or spleen.

Results: Extensive adenopathy was seen in 10% of patients. Marked hepatic and splenic enlargement was seen in 8% and 6%, respectively. Nodules were seen in the spleen in eight (15%) patients and in the liver in three (5%). Although liver size, spleen size, and adenopathy were directly related (P < .0001), the presence of nodules was not strongly related to organ size. Abdominal CT findings were related to clinical status and elevated ACE levels but not to chest radiographic stage.

Conclusion: Marked abdominal CT findings are uncommon in sarcoidosis and correlate with disease activity but not chest radiographic stage.