Sarcoidosis is an immune disease that occurs when small nodules called granulomas form in or around a patient’s organs. These granulomas are most commonly found in the lungs, but can affect any organ in the body, including the liver, eyes, skin, lymph nodes, heart, and even the brain. While in some cases this disease resolves on its own, in others it becomes chronic, leading to severe health problems. While sarcoidosis is found worldwide and can affect anyone, it is slightly more prevalent in women, and, in the United States, people of African ancestry are more commonly and more severely affected than those of European ancestry.

As director of the Sarcoidosis Research Unit, I lead multiple efforts focused on understanding the genetic and environmental risk factors for this complex disease. Exploring these risk factors is important to understand why the disease occurs, and why some patients are more severely affected than others. We know that sarcoidosis can run in families and that certain environmental exposures increase the risk of disease, but we also understand it is a complex process. That is why, for almost 20 years, our studies have aimed to improve diagnostic and treatment options for patients and have led the way in understanding the role genetics plays in sarcoidosis.

We are so thankful to the patients who participate in our research clinics and not only share their time, but also their amazing stories with us! If you are interested in participating, please see our SRU website.