EC Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatous disease that affects individuals worldwide. Patients with this disease, sometimes experience a decrease in quality of life and are at increased risk of disability and comorbidities. Several studies have reported correlations between sleep disorders and sarcoidosis, with an accompanying rise in pain perception and fatigue. Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is the most common of sleep disorders and it contributes to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Although the true impact of OSA on patients with sarcoidosis remains to be defined with certainty, it is certain that both pathologies lead to a state of symptoms.

We present a case of OSA and sarcoidosis. PP was 62 years-old, nonsmoking male (BMI 29 Kg/m2), who had suffered from sarcoidosis for 4 years, that was with immunosuppressive drugs, developing insomnia, restless legs syndrome and daytime symptoms, such as pain, stiffness and fatigue. The main comorbidities were ischemic cardiomyopathy, chronic atrial fibrillation with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 45% and main metabolic syndrome. Despite optimization of the immunosuppressive treatment, his symptoms remained unchanged. He underwent a pulmonary examination on suspicion of OSA, which was confirmed by nocturnal cardiorespiratory monitoring. The patient was diagnosed with moderate OSA and was administered automatic positive airway pressure therapy, which effected the disappearance of symptoms.

Recently, it has been demonstrated that OSA is rather common in sarcoidosis. This clinical case underscores the importance of the early identification of these diseases. Treatment might be beneficial with regard to future comorbidities such as cardiovascular dysfunction and improve measures of fatigue and pain, and the quality of life.

Keywords: Obstructive Sleep Apnea; Sarcoidosis

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