Sputum cytology in pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Sputum cytology in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis has been investigated. All cases of pulmonary sarcoidosis with roentgenographic evidence of pulmonary interstitial fibrosis and scarring have revealed diagnostically significant cytologic features in their pulmonary material. These include multinucleated epitheloid giant cells, epithelioid cells and lymphoid mononuclear cells in an otherwise noninflammatory, clean specimen. The characteristic cells occur in streaks, either singly or as syncytium. They are dark, cyanophilic with little phagocytic activity. Schaumann and asteroid bodies may be present. Cytologic examination of induced sputum specimens in asymptomatic patients of suspected pulmonary sarcoidosis with interstitial involvement can help in diagnosis and management of these cases.