Magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear imaging in sarcoidosis

MRI has become of great importance in the study of several aspects of sarcoidosis. The main development has taken place in the assessment of neurosarcoidosis, but MRI may be also useful in the evaluation of sarcoidosis of the bone, muscle, heart, and intrathoracic. Nuclear imaging in sarcoidosis acquired a great expansion with the introduction of (67)gallium scanning as a marker of activity. Although its current use has decreased, it is still very helpful in particular situations of the disease. Other more recently introduced nuclear imaging techniques may have a role in the evaluation of cardiac sarcoidosis and in the assessment of the extension of the disease. (C) 2002 Lippincott Williams Wilkins, Inc.