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Neurosarcoidosis is a complication of sarcoidosis, in which inflammation occurs in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the nervous system.

Alternative Names

Sarcoidosis - nervous system



Neurosarcoidosis may affect any part of the nervous system. Sudden, facial weakness (facial palsy) is a common neurological symptom that involves the nerves to the muscles of the face. Any other nerve in the skull can be affected, including those in the eye and those that control taste, smell, or hearing.

The spinal cord is another part of the nervous system that sarcoid can affect. People may have weakness in their arms and legs, and difficulty walking or controlling their urine.

The condition can also affect the parts of the brain involved in regulating many body functions, such as temperature, sleep, and stress responses.



Involvement of the pituitary gland can cause:


Involvement of one or more peripheral nerves can lead to:

Exams and Tests

An exam may show problems with one or more nerves.

A history of sarcoidosis followed by nerve-related symptoms highly suggests neurosarcoidosis. However, symptoms of the condition can mimic other medical disorders, including diabetes insipidus, hypopituitarism, optic neuritis, meningitis, and certain tumors. Sometimes, the nervous system can be affected before a person is known to have sarcoid, or without affecting the lungs or other organs at all.


MRI of the brain may be helpful. A chest x-ray often reveals signs of sarcoidosis of the lungs. Nerve biopsy of affected nerve tissue confirms the disorder.


There is no known cure for sarcoidosis. Treatment is given if symptoms are severe or are getting worse. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms.

Corticosteroids such as prednisone are prescribed to reduce inflammation. They are often prescribed until symptoms get better or go away. You may need to take the medicines for months, or even years.




Outlook (Prognosis)

Some cases go away on their own in 4 - 6 months. Others continue off and on for the rest of the person's life. Neurosarcoidosis can cause permanent disability and, in some cases, death.

Possible Complications


When to Contact a Medical Professional








Review Date: 2/19/2015