Diagnosis and Therapy of Cardiac Sarcoidosis: A Clinical Perspective

Abstract

Cardiac sarcoidosis, either as part of a systemic process or in its isolated form, is an important and increasingly recognized disorder. It is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, including sudden cardiac death. Early recognition and prompt initiation of treatment is life-saving. A team approach, involving general cardiologists, cardiac electrophysiologists, cardiac imaging specialists and radiologists, is the key to best diagnose and manage this complex disorder. Advanced cardiac imaging with PET and MRI is useful for both diagnosis and managment of therapy. Treatment for this disorder involves immunosuppresant therapy, ICDs, and guideline-directed medical therapy of congestive heart failure.