Although sarcoidosis is a form of interstitial lung disease (ILD), it can affect many body systems beyond the lungs. Treatment for lung sarcoidosis varies, depending on how it affects you.
At the Penn ILD and Sarcoidosis Program, our pulmonology team offers leading treatments to relieve sarcoidosis symptoms throughout the body. When needed, we coordinate with other medical specialists to get you the right care when sarcoidosis affects other parts of your body.
Pulmonary Sarcoidosis Treatment: Why Choose Penn Medicine
Sarcoidosis varies from person to person. Some people need treatment to prevent permanent organ damage, while other cases resolve on their own. Treatment for lung sarcoidosis needs to be as unique as you are. The team at Penn develops a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and lung sarcoidosis diagnosis. When you come to Penn you'll find:
- Expert care: Our deep experience helps us determine whether you need treatment for sarcoidosis. If you do, we can recommend the best therapies for you, while managing complications and side effects.
- Multidisciplinary team: Sarcoidosis often affects more than just the lungs. At Penn, your team includes leading experts in lung disease, including pulmonologists, chest radiologists, critical care doctors and nurses. We also work closely with a multidisciplinary team that includes rheumatologists, neurologists, cardiologists, radiologists, dermatologists and gastroenterologists. The team approach offers you the best sarcoid care for your whole body.
- Personal attention: Sarcoidosis can be complicated. We're committed to making sure you and your family understand the disease and your treatment options. We take the time to answer all your questions. And we welcome your loved ones at all discussions, in person or via telemedicine.
- Supportive services: At Penn, you're surrounded by support. Support groups and smoking cessation programs help you live better with sarcoidosis. Our social workers help you access any services you might need. Palliative care experts help you manage symptoms and feel your best.
- Careful monitoring: Whether you need treatment for sarcoidosis or not, our team is dedicated to monitoring your condition through regular exams and tests. We're also available for urgent care if necessary. Consistent follow-up helps you manage symptoms and avoid complications.
- Close collaboration with your local doctors: We believe in a shared model of care. We work with your local physician or pulmonologist to give you the best access to our experts and the convenience of care close to home.
Treating Sarcoidosis of the Lung: Medications, Therapies, and Surgery
Not all cases of sarcoidosis require treatment. But if the condition is threatening your organs or affecting your quality of life, you have options.
Our team can provide therapies to reduce inflammation in your lungs and help you breathe easier. If we know what's causing your sarcoidosis, we can educate you on how to avoid those irritants.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are medications that reduce inflammation in the lungs and other body systems. They are the first-line treatment for sarcoidosis. Your team at Penn can find the right dose of corticosteroids that gives you relief and limits side effects.
Supplemental Oxygen
Oxygen therapy gives your body extra oxygen and makes breathing easier if your oxygen level is low.. Supplemental oxygen also protects the rest of your body from complications of low oxygen. You may also find that you have more energy overall.
Immunosuppressant Medications
Cells in your immune system contribute to symptoms of sarcoidosis. Certain medicines that reduce immune activity may help reduce inflammation. We may offer these medications to help you reduce or discontinue corticosteroids. Your team will educate you about how to take these medications safely and prevent infections.
Lung Transplantation
Some people with advanced sarcoidosis may eventually need a lung transplant. Our sarcoidosis team works closely with the Penn Lung Transplant Program, one of the top programs in the world.
If we think you are a candidate for lung transplant, we introduce you to the transplant team long before a transplant is needed. You get to know them, learn about the transplant process and what to expect. The transplant team works with you to identify any issues that need to be addressed before a transplant, such as losing weight or establishing a support system.
Make an Appointment
Please call 800-789-7366 or request a callback.