LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Sarcoidosis: Inflammation
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Sarcoidosis cardiac inflammation is very difficult to diagnose. It is only picked up by echo or MRI in its advanced stages. A biopsy of the heart is dangerous, often imprecise and unnecessary. Th1 inflammation in the heart is subclinical long before the damage it causes is detected by tests. chest pain, tachycardia, bradycardia, mitral valve prolapse, atrial fibrillation and premature beats.
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The importance of TNF in propagating inflammation in sarcoidosis has been demonstrated by the efficacy of anti-TNF agents, such as pentoxifylline and infliximab, in treating this disease. In addition to T cells, B cells ... play a role. There is evidence of B cell hyperreactivity with immunoglobulin production. Antigen-presenting cells also accumulate at sites of involvement in sarcoidosis. Finally, levels of fibrinogenic cytokines (eg, transforming growth factor [TGF]–beta) are increased.
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Corticosteroids such as prednisone, prescribed by a physician, are the most effective medications for reducing inflammation associated with sarcoidosis. Oral corticosteroids can have some serious side effects if taken in high doses for long periods, including high blood pressure, diabetes, peptic ulcers, tuberculosis, or hirsutism (excessive hair growth). If an individual is at risk for these problems, a physician will likely advise regular check-ups and tests.
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