The reasons for this are not clear. Some scientists believe that this condition is not common. Because sarcoidosis can disappear even without therapy, doctors sometimes disagree on when to start the treatment, what dose to prescribe, and how long to continue the medicine. The doctor's decision depends on the organ system involved and how far the inflammation has progressed. Corticosteroid treatment usually results in improvement.
Symptoms often start up again, however, when it is stopped.
Treatment, therefore, may be necessary for several years, sometimes for as long as the disease remains active or to prevent relapse. Frequent checkups are important so that the doctor can monitor the illness and, if necessary, adjust the treatment. Long-term use can affect the stomach, skin, and bones. This situation can bring on stomach pain, an ulcer, or acne, or cause the loss of calcium from bones. However, if the corticosteroid is taken in carefully prescribed, low doses, the benefits from the treatment are usually far greater than the problems.