SARCOIDOSIS

systemic disease of unknown cause that is characterized by the formation of granulation (scarlike) tissue. Sarcoidosis often disappears spontaneously within two or three years but may progress to involve more than one organ. It is observed in the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes, salivary glands, muscles, liver, spleen, and the connective tissues of the nervous system. Skin lesions and bone cysts are characteristically present in the chronic form of the disease. Sarcoidosis may cause no symptoms, or an attack may begin with the appearance of tender red nodules on the front of the legs and with pain in the joints. There may be fever that lasts from six weeks to three months. The chronic form of sarcoidosis usually results in severe disease of the lungs and kidneys; the lung disease may cause damage to the heart.