Neurosarcoidosis

Continuum (Minneap Minn). 2014 Jun;20(3 Neurology of Systemic Disease):545-59. doi: 10.1212/01.CON.0000450965.30710.e9.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This article provides an update on the evaluation and treatment of neurosarcoidosis.

Recent findings: The broad range of clinical manifestations of neurosarcoidosis has recently expanded to include painful small fiber neuropathy. Although definitive diagnosis remains a challenge, fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomographic (FDG-PET) scan and high-resolution CT allow for improved detection of systemic sarcoidosis. In addition, endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration provides a less invasive means of tissue confirmation of systemic sarcoidosis than mediastinoscopy. Although not standardized, treatment strategies for neurosarcoidosis now commonly include tumor necrosis factor-α antagonists in combination with corticosteroids and other cytotoxic agents for patients with severe disease.

Summary: Advances in the diagnosis and management of neurosarcoidosis may benefit the patient and clinician faced with this multifaceted disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Central Nervous System Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Central Nervous System Diseases / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Sarcoidosis / diagnosis*
  • Sarcoidosis / therapy*

Supplementary concepts

  • Neurosarcoidosis