Biopsy of the neck lymph nodes showing sarcoidosis. Pulmonary function test showing asthma. No effect with the steroids. Need further tests?
Patient: I recently had a biopsy of my neck lymph nodes that showed sarcoidosis . Had a pulmonary function test which definitely shows asthma. Been on steriods for one week, noticing improvement in breathing but still wheezing and need to use inhaler three to four times a day. I still have watery eyes, nasal congestion, and lymph nodes are still swollen. I was wondering if there is any questions that I should be asking my doctor. Should I be getting any other tests? Pulmonary doctor doesn t feel the lymph nodes in my lungs should be biopsied at this time. Doctor: Hi sixguysandagirl,   Sarcoidosis being a chronic disease it cannot be cured in days. A week of steroid treatment cannot cure the symptoms of sarcoidosis. Sometimes it wont be cured with steroid treatment alone needing more powerful immunosuppressive drugs but sometimes it may be cured spontaneously also, so continue taking the drugs....Since the diagnosis has been confirmed and pulmonary function tests done no need to take lung biopsy..                            If at all you want, you can see complete blood count, electrolytes to look for associated comorbidities and liver function tests to see for liver involvement...                                 With regards,                                                  Dr. Parthipan