**Chapter 10 147**

Sarcoid Involvement of the Mammary Gland *by Patricia López Arribas, Elena Martínez Gómez and Álvaro Zapico Goñi*

### **Chapter 11 155**

Granulomatous Diseases Mimicking Sarcoidosis *by Angel Robles-Marhuenda*

Preface

Sarcoidosis is a multi-organ, granulomatous disease the etiology of which remains unknown; it is characterized by T-cell dysfunction and B-cell hyperactivity with increased local immune activity and inflammation that leads to the formation of noncaseating granulomas in the organs involved. The lung and lymphatic system are the most commonly affected organs, however, virtually any organ may be affected. Other common sites of involvement include the skin, eye, central nervous system, and the heart. Patients may present different symptoms related to the

Sarcoidosis is a global disease, and its prevalence has increased twofold over the past years. Due to the clinical heterogeneity and variable diagnostic criteria in different countries, it is difficult to calculate the exact prevalence and incidence of sarcoidosis. Age, sex, race, and geographic origin significantly influence the incidence of sarcoidosis. The book at hand is an international text on sarcoidosis. It is the fruition of specialists from several countries. The chapters presented herein are written by experts in this field. The book is organized in a logical manner starting with an introductory chapter, followed by diagnostic techniques, imaging, differential diagnosis, clinical manifestations, and then involvement of specific

organs, followed by granulomatous diseases mimicking sarcoidosis.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank all my national and international colleagues who helped me compile the chapters necessary for this book. I sincerely

BMSU, IAUMS, TUMS Trauma and Craniomaxillofacial Research Centers,

**Mohammad Hosein K. Motamedi, DDS** Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery,

Tehran, Iran

hope that it will be of use to all clinicians involved in the treatment of this

disease stage and the specific organ involved.

mysterious disease.
