Sarcoidosis of the nervous system: a clinical approach

Article Abstract:

A review is presented of the clinical signs of sarcoidosis of the nervous system, a disease affecting the nervous system in only about 10 percent of the cases. Sarcoidosis is a disorder that can affect many systems in the body, forming hardened nodules (noncaseating granulomas) in the lungs, lymph nodes, bones, and other organs. In the central nervous system (CNS), the disease usually strikes the base of the brain, causing abnormalities in functions controlled by the cranial nerves, inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain (meningitis), masses, changes in the peripheral nerves, and inflammation of the white matter. Descriptions are given of the signs of cranial nerve involvement; most commonly, the facial nerve is affected, causing paralysis of the facial muscles. Next most commonly affected is the optic nerve, leading to blurred vision and other abnormalities. The disease can cause seizures, meningitis, localized masses, effects on the pituitary and hypothalamus (glands that control endocrine function), cerebellar ataxia (a movement disorder), spinal cord abnormalities, mental symptoms, and muscle disorders. A diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis requires a diagnosis of sarcoidosis and histological proof of the presence of noncaseating granulomas. Computerized tomographic (CT) scans of the head should be obtained. Not all types of diagnostic test are useful for diagnosing neurosarcoidosis; the most appropriate tests are discussed. Treating neurosarcoidosis relies heavily on corticosteroid drugs, and may require immunosuppressive agents, as well. In some cases, surgery is needed. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Care and treatment, Complications and side effects, Central nervous system diseases, Sarcoidosis

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Velocardiofacial syndrome presenting as hypocalcemia in early adolescence

Article Abstract:

Velocardiofacial syndrome is a childhood condition caused by a chromosomal abnormality. Patients may have abnormal development and function of the thymus and parathyroid glands, heart defects, cleft palate, facial abnormalities and other defects. The endocrine abnormalities may cause low blood calcium levels, which can induce seizures. Two case studies illustrate the wide range of symptoms seen in this syndrome.

Health aspects, Case studies, Causes of, Birth defects, Chromosome deletion, Hypocalcemia

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