Sarcoidosis presenting as bilateral lacrimal gland swelling: a pediatric case report

Pediatr Rheumatol Online J. 2021 Aug 6;19(1):117. doi: 10.1186/s12969-021-00606-1.

Abstract

Background: To describe a case of pediatric sarcoidosis which initially presented as papillary conjunctivitis before manifesting as bilateral lacrimal gland swelling without other known systemic involvement.

Case presentation: A 10-year-old female presented to the pediatric ophthalmology clinic with complaints of bilateral eyelid swelling, tearing and itching for approximately 1 month. Her history and exam were most consistent with allergic conjunctivitis, for which she was started on a standard topical regimen. Despite initial improvement, she re-presented with significantly worsened eyelid swelling and minimal allergic symptoms. Enlargement of the lacrimal glands were palpable at this time. Lacrimal gland biopsy was obtained which demonstrated noncaseating granulomas. Systemic workup did not reveal evidence of disease involvement elsewhere.

Conclusions: Sarcoidosis in the pediatric population may present in a myriad of ways and is well-known to mimic other disease entities. We present a case of pediatric sarcoidosis which presented initially as papillary conjunctivitis before manifesting as bilateral lacrimal gland swelling without systemic involvement.

Keywords: Granulomatous inflammation; Lacrimal gland; Pediatric sarcoidosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Edema / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lacrimal Apparatus Diseases / etiology*
  • Sarcoidosis / complications*
  • Sarcoidosis / diagnosis