Hepatic Sarcoidosis

Abstract

The development of knowledge validating sarcoidosis as a distinct clinicopathologic entity has been traced and reviewed.^*The purpose of this study is to review the incidence of hepatic sarcoidosis, its relationship to liver failure with jaundice, ascites, and portal hypertension, and to add to the literature 2 cases of portal hypertension and 2 cases of liver failure without portal hypertension, all secondary to intrinsic hepatic sarcoidosis. <h3>Report of Cases</h3><h3>Case 1.—</h3> A 41-year-old Negro woman complained of abdominal distention, weight loss, and anorexia of 3 months' duration. Past history was negative for jaundice, liver disease, or alcoholism. Physical examination revealed scleral icterus, normal fundi, and no lymph node enlargement. The liver was palpated 8 cm. below the right costal margin, was firm and nontender. The spleen was felt 4 cm. below the left costal margin. A fluid wave and shifting dullness were demonstrated, and there was 1+ pitting edema of