[The role of central registry in control and research of sarcoidosls in Serbia and Montenegro].

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of sarcoidosis varies according to ethnic origin, geographic region and genetic factors. It might be more prevalent than reported Serbia & Montenegro is a Balkan country which has a population of about 8 million inhabitants and occupies part of the territory of ex-Yugoslavia. Epidemiological data on sarcoidosis are collected and followed-up through a network of referral facilities. The aim of the study was to analyze some sarcoidosis epidemiological features in Serbia&Montenegro in a 10-year period (1991-2002) and to highlight advantages of central sarcoidosis register.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Annual reports of two referral institutions (one from Serbia, the other from Montenegro) on sarcoidosis were analyzed, as well as official mortality statistics.

RESULTS

The incidence rate (IR) trend for sarcoidosis is stable with 1.9/100,000 inhabitants on average in 12 year period (RR: 1.3 - 2.6%). In the last year of the analyzed period--2002--IR was 1.3/100,000 pop. IR varies significantly by region (0.05 - 4.9/100,000). Female to male ratio is 1.84. The prevalence of sarcoidosis has an increasing tendency and might require precise exclusion criteria of cases in registries. The mortality rate is below 1/100,000 both in females and males.

CONCLUSION

Although we assume that provided data are accurate on average, a central sarcoidosis registry would improve registration, follow-up and research on sarcoidosis. Significant IR differences among regions might be an object of another investigation, as well as a study of genetic predispositions to sarcoidosis.