Six-minute walk test in managing and monitoring sarcoidosis patients.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To describe the value and limitations of using the 6-min test in assessing patients with sarcoidosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Static lung function studies and chest roentgenogram do not correlate well with the symptoms of sarcoidosis patients. In particular, dyspnea is a common complaint of sarcoidosis patients, which may be due to multiple factors including lung function, muscle strength, cardiac disease, and fatigue as a result of the disease. The 6-min walk distance has been the focus of studies in other interstitial lung diseases. Its use and limitations in sarcoidosis are described.

SUMMARY

The 6-min walk distance can be a useful test in assessing sarcoidosis patients. Reduction of 6-min walk distance, however, can be due to multiple factors.