Hepatic and Splenic Sarcoidosis Without Lymphadenopathy: An Atypical Multisystem Presentation

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Authors: Inês Fiúza M. Rua, João Rodrigues, Sérgio Cabaço, Rodrigo Cavalcanti, Marcel Guerreiro
Cited by: 0
References: 16

Abstract

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown etiology characterized by non-caseating granulomas in affected organs. Although pulmonary involvement is most common, extrapulmonary manifestations, particularly hepatic and splenic, may occur in isolation or association. The absence of lymphadenopathy is considered an atypical and uncommon pattern, which may hinder the diagnosis and requires the exclusion of other causes of granulomatous disease. We present a case of a 66-year-old woman with chronic hepatosplenomegaly, mild cytopenias, persistent elevation of cholestatic enzymes, and progressive pulmonary changes without lymphadenopathy. Extensive investigation excluded infectious, autoimmune, and hematologic causes. Liver biopsy confirmed non-necrotizing granulomas consistent with hepatic sarcoidosis. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by atypical sarcoidosis presentations and underscores the importance of considering sarcoidosis in the differential diagnosis of isolated hepatosplenomegaly, even in the absence of lymphadenopathy.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Sarcoidosis and Beryllium Toxicity Research Histiocytic Disorders and Treatments Medical Imaging and Pathology Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Cureus
Volume
18
Issue
1
Pages
e101670–e101670
Publication date
16 January 2026
Language
EN