There is considerable difference among racial groups in the likelihood of the sarcoidosis clearing up without causing any permanent damage. The percentage of cases that resolve decreases as the stage increases. Generally, the older the patient is, the more likely the sarcoidosis will become chronic and lead to fibrosis. The upper airways, including the sinuses and the larynx, can be affected with sarcoidosis. Sinus involvement can lead to recurrent sinusitis or, rarely, perforation of the nasal septum.
Laryngeal involvement can lead to hoarseness and upper airway obstruction.
Endobronchial involvement Granulomas can occur in the trachea or the bronchial tubes leading to airway obstruction that can cause difficulty breathing and obstructive pneumonia. In addition to the hilar and mediastinal lymph nodes in the chest, sarcoidosis can affect lymph nodes in other parts of the body. Lymph node involvement outside of the thoracic region is more common among African Americans than Caucasians. Most skin lesions are harmless, although they can cause scarring and disfigurement. One type, lupus pernio, develops on the face and can leave scars.