Neurosarcoidosis
What is neurosarcoidosis?
Neurosarcoidosis is a type of sarcoidosis characterized by inflammation in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the nervous system. It is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. The inflammation seen with neurosarcoidosis can cause damage to the myelin coating on nerve fibers, disrupting the flow of nerve impulses (messages) from the central nervous system. As a result, neurosarcoidosis may cause a reduction or loss of body function.
The symptoms of neurosarcoidosis are similar to those of multiple sclerosis (MS) but are dependent on the part of the central nervous system that is affected.
If neurosarcoidosis affects the brain or cranial nerves, symptoms can include:
- Hearing loss
- Confusion
- Delirium
- Dementia
- Vision problems
- Loss of sense of smell or taste
- Seizures
- Facial palsy
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Speech impairment
If it affects the pituitary gland, some symptoms that may occur include:
- Fatigue
- Changes in menstrual periods
- Excessive urination
- Excessive thirst
If neurosarcoidosis affects the peripheral nerves, it can cause:
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of movement
What are the challenges with neurosarcoidosis?
Despite how debilitating neurosarcoidosis can be, several challenges surround its management and treatment. First, it is difficult to diagnose neurosarcoidosis as biopsies of the nervous system are not readily available. Additionally, some cases may be relapsing-remitting or progressive, and the long-term effects of neurosarcoidosis are unknown.
These challenges offer many areas for biopharma companies to focus on in future research and development endeavors.