It is the formation of these granulomas and the resulting tissue damage caused by the cells within these granulomas that cause the symptoms of sarcoidosis. Often times these granulomas are not of significant number or in a critical location to cause symptoms. The way it presents itself varies remarkably from case to case. In some patients, it is very short-lived and mild, whereas in others it can become a chronic, debilitating sickness. Usually it is self-limiting, meaning that is resolves on its own or does not progress.
Many cases require no treatment.
Sometimes, however, it progresses to the point of fibrosis, the formation of scar-like fibrous tissue, which pernamently impairs the ability of the affected organ to function. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy. They help suppress the inflammation and prevent granulomas and fibrosis from forming. Sarcoidosis is characterized by the formation of what are known as granulomas. A granuloma is a small, granular inflammatory lesion.