Löfgren syndrome

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Löfgren syndrome
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Erythema nodosum, arthritis, hilar lymphadenopathy
Complications	N/A
Onset	Acute
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, associated with sarcoidosis
Risks	Genetic predisposition, Scandinavian descent
Diagnosis	Clinical presentation, chest X-ray, CT scan, blood test
Differential diagnosis	Rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, lymphoma
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	NSAIDs, corticosteroids
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good, often resolves spontaneously
Frequency	More common in Northern Europe
Deaths	N/A

Löfgren syndrome is a clinical presentation of sarcoidosis, characterized by a triad of symptoms: erythema nodosum, bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, and arthritis. It is considered an acute form of sarcoidosis and is more common in certain populations, such as those of Scandinavian descent.

Clinical Features

Löfgren syndrome typically presents with the following features:

Erythema Nodosum

Erythema nodosum is an inflammatory condition characterized by tender red nodules, usually located on the shins. It is a common manifestation in Löfgren syndrome and is often one of the first symptoms to appear.

Bilateral Hilar Lymphadenopathy

Bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy refers to the enlargement of the lymph nodes located at the hilum of the lungs. This is a hallmark feature of Löfgren syndrome and can be detected through a chest X-ray.

Arthritis

Arthritis in Löfgren syndrome typically affects the ankles, but it can also involve other joints. The arthritis is usually acute and self-limiting, resolving within a few weeks to months.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Löfgren syndrome is primarily clinical, based on the presence of the characteristic triad of symptoms. Additional tests, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, may be used to confirm bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. A biopsy is generally not required unless the diagnosis is uncertain.

Prognosis

Löfgren syndrome generally has a good prognosis, with most patients experiencing spontaneous resolution of symptoms within 6 months to 2 years. The presence of erythema nodosum is associated with a favorable outcome.

Treatment

Treatment for Löfgren syndrome is often supportive, focusing on symptom relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed.

See also

• Sarcoidosis
• Erythema nodosum
• Arthritis
• Lymphadenopathy