Effects of corticosteroid treatment on pulmonary haemodynamics in patients with sarcoidosis

Eur Respir J. 1990 Apr;3(4):403-7.

Abstract

Effects of 12 months steroid treatment on pulmonary haemodynamics in 24 patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis, stage II and III, were investigated. All patients had a chest radiograph, lung function tests, and pulmonary haemodynamics (measured at rest and during submaximal exercise) prior to the treatment. Resting pulmonary hypertension was found in 3 patients. In 18 an abnormal increase in pulmonary arterial mean pressure (PAP) on exercise was observed. All investigations were repeated after a year of treatment. In almost all patients (22) a regression of radiological changes in the lungs and improvement of pulmonary function were observed. The changes in pulmonary circulation were less uniform. In only half of the patients studied was regression of the disease seen on chest X-ray and improvement in lung function accompanied by improvement in pulmonary haemodynamics.

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / pharmacology*
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Hemodynamics
  • Humans
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging
  • Lung / physiopathology
  • Lung Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Lung Diseases / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pulmonary Circulation / drug effects*
  • Radiography
  • Sarcoidosis / drug therapy*
  • Sarcoidosis / physiopathology

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones