Prognosis and duration

One can identify two polar groups in sarcoidosis:

• Stage 1 - the acute form of the disease, which has a good prognosis. The typical manifestations are bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy of the lungs, erythema nodosum, and painful ankles. The condition usually improves spontaneously over a period of months.
• Stage 2 - the chronic and progressive form of the disease in which there is one or more of pulmonary fibrosis, bone cysts, and lupus pernio (see image).

In most people, the condition will spontaneously resolve without treatment including 90% of patients with Stage1 disease and 50% of those with Stage 2 disease.

All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.

Amended November 2008