Prognostic Significance of Lymphopenia in Sarcoidosis

Abstract

During 1959-67, sarcoidosis was diagnosed in a series of 140 patients. All were followed up and 22 developed chronic sarcoidosis. In 134 patients (20 with chronic course) initial granulocyte, monocyte and lymphocyte counts were known. No differences in granulocyte values were seen between different groups of sarcoidosis patients. Patients with erythema nodosum had significantly increased monocyte levels. Lymphopenia below 1000/.mu.l was seen in only 7.5% of the patients. Lymphocyte counts below 1500/.mu.l were a common finding, especially in patients developing chronic sarcoidosis. Significantly decreased lymphocyte values were seen in patients older than 40 yr at the time of diagnosis, in patients negative to 10 TU [tuberculin units] of PPD [purified protein derivative] and in those with a disease requiring treatment with corticosteroids. A correlation was found between initial lymphopenia and less favorable prognosis, 85% of the patients having a very good prognosis. Patients with initial lymphopenia must be carefully followed up. The initial presence of erythema nodosum did not always guarantee a good prognosis.