Large coalescent parenchymal nodules in pulmonary sarcoidosis: "sarcoid galaxy" sign

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2002 Jun;178(6):1389-93. doi: 10.2214/ajr.178.6.1781389.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the large parenchymal nodules in pulmonary sarcoidosis and to describe a new CT sign termed the "sarcoid galaxy."

Conclusion: The CT appearance of pulmonary sarcoidosis suggests that the large nodules arise from a coalescence of small nodules. The large nodules are surrounded by many tiny satellite nodules. These findings were considered to simulate the appearance of a galaxy. This observation was supported by radiologic-pathologic correlation. The sarcoid galaxy sign may be a useful adjunct in the diagnosis of pulmonary sarcoidosis.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sarcoidosis, Pulmonary / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*