What characterizes Sarcoidosis?

Sarcoidosis is primarily characterized by the formation of granulomas, which are small clumps of immune cells that cluster together. This condition usually involves an exaggerated immune response, which leads to these clusters developing in various tissues and organs throughout the body, including the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes, and skin. The presence of granulomas is a hallmark of sarcoidosis and is crucial in diagnosing the disease.

While other symptoms and manifestations can accompany sarcoidosis, such as skin inflammation, fatigue, and weight loss, these are not defining characteristics of the condition itself but rather symptoms that may occur as a result of the underlying granulomatous inflammation. In addition, excessive fluid accumulation is not typical in sarcoidosis but can be seen in other medical conditions. Understanding the role of granulomas helps to clarify the pathology of sarcoidosis and why this option is the most accurate descriptor of the disease.