Nodular sarcoidosis of the liver and spleen: analysis of 32 cases.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

PURPOSE: To describe the computed tomographic (CT) appearance of nodular hepatosplenic sarcoidosis and its association with stage with chest radiography and clinical status. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two patients (21 women, 11 men; aged 25-68 years) with nodular hepatosplenic sarcoidosis were evaluated. CT findings were described along with chest radiographic stage, clinical status, and level of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). RESULTS: Nodules were small, multiple, and of low attenuation. Organomegaly was common. Abdominal adenopathy was present in 76% of the patients. Chest radiographs were normal in 25%; 61% had stage 1 or 2 radiographs. Abdominal or systemic symptoms were present in 66%. ACE level was elevated in 10 (91%) of 11 patients tested. No change in chest radiographic stage was noted in 74% of patients with follow-up radiographs. CONCLUSION: Nodular hepatosplenic sarcoidosis is associated with organomegaly, adenopathy, and symptoms. Nodules were not associated with advanced lung disease and did not herald a change in chest radiographic stage. An elevated ACE level may be helpful in diagnosis.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Warshauer, DM; Molina, PL; Hamman, SM; Koehler, RE; Paulson, EK; Bechtold, RE; Perlmutter, ML; Hiken, JN; Francis, IR; Cooper, CJ

Published Date

  • June 1995

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 195 / 3

Start / End Page

  • 757 - 762

PubMed ID

  • 7754007

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0033-8419

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1148/radiology.195.3.7754007

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States