Introduction. Sarcoidosis affects the central nervous system more frequently
than it was previously believed. Since the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is
often delayed, it may result in serious complications. Being non-specific
when present, the symptoms may be subtle and resemble those of other
neurological diseases. While the cranial nerves are most frequently affected,
neurosarcoidosis can involve other nervous system tissues including the
meninges, brain parenchyma (especially the hypothalamic region), spinal cord,
peripheral nerve and muscle. Discussion and Review of Literature. During the
past decade, a significant progress was made in understanding the
epidemiology and pathophysiology of neurosarcoidosis, as well as the
possibility to diagnose and treat this disease. Studies have shown that the
optimal diagnostic imaging modality for neurosarcoidosis is magnetic
resonance imaging with gadolinium because it enhances visualization of
granulomatous infiltration in neural tissue. Subclinical neurosarcoidosis may
not be uncommon in patients with sarcoidosis. It is now evident that
neurosarcoidosis does not invariably present as a catastrophic event. Adverse
effects associated with high-dose systemic corticosteroids, the standard
therapy, have discouraged practitioners from initiating treatment in the
absence of significant symptomatic neurological disease. However, other
immunosuppressive agents as well newer biologic agents have emerged as an
effective, well-tolerated therapeutic alternative to corticosteroids, which
are often effective in corticosteroid- recalcitrant cases. Conclusion.
Neurosarcoidosis, as a localized granulomatous disease, is possible and not
so rare. Early recognition of neurological involvement in patients with
undiagnosed or diagnosed sarcoidosis is crucial to prevent complications,
which can sometimes be life-threatening. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke
Republike Srbije, br. 175046 i br. 175081]