Identifying the cause of a sarcoid-like disease is the first step to finding a cure and prevention. That is why our history of contact is so very important. All autoimmune diseases are like this, as soon as they have a cause they are no longer autoimmune. Tell me I am wrong. Actually it may have been your dentist.
Beryllium is a toxic metal.
Both of these materials as a heated gas or in dust form can cause a sarcoid-like disease. Neither of these materials are tested for as a cause during the routine diagnosis exclusion process for sarcoidosis. Dental personnel should be aware that amalgamators may be contaminated with mercury and produce minute amounts of mercury vapor. In this report, we describe a dental laboratory technician who developed chronic beryllium disease as a result of exposure in the workplace. So next time you're in that reclining chair, bright lights and that wizzing sound starting up, ask for the same protection your dentist has on.