Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network

According to a recent study, a BALF CD4/CD8 ratio of less than 0.69 (LR = 0) or more than 7.45 (LR = infinity) carries the most important diagnostic information because it respectively rules out or confirms the diagnosis of pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown cause that primarily affects the lungs and the lymphatic system. Pulmonary sarcoidosis is the most common interstitial lung disease in the Western world. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis is established by histologic evidence of noncaseating granulomas after exclusion of other granulomatous diseases capable of producing a similar histologic or clinical picture.

Diagnosis of pulmonary sarcoidosis is often delayed: nearly half of the cases are diagnosed more than six months after the first physician visit for a complaint related to sarcoidosis, and almost half require at least four physician visits until the diagnosis is made.

To assist physicians with diagnosis, MPLN offers flow cytometry for Bronchoalveolar Lavage (CD4, CD8, CD4:CD8 ratio). For more information about this test, call a client service specialist at 800.932.2943.