Pulmonary sarcoidosis mimicking tuberculosis: Importance of the galaxy sign on thoracic computed tomography

Reumatol Clin (Engl Ed). 2019 Nov-Dec;15(6):e133-e135. doi: 10.1016/j.reuma.2017.07.022. Epub 2017 Aug 31.
[Article in English, Spanish]

Abstract

Sarcoidosis and tuberculosis are two common granulomatous conditions that may share clinical and radiological presentations. The galaxy sign (sarcoid galaxy sign) is a characteristic radiological sign of pulmonary sarcoidosis on thoracic computed tomography (CT). We present the case of a patient with sarcoidosis that was initially misdiagnosed as tuberculosis, in whom the galaxy sign on CT was useful as it suggested the correct diagnosis.

Keywords: Computed tomography; Galaxy sign; Sarcoidosis; Signo de la galaxia; Tomografía computarizada; Tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Sarcoidosis, Pulmonary / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / diagnostic imaging*