What is the primary treatment for pulmonary sarcoidosis?

Prednisone is the primary treatment for pulmonary sarcoidosis due to its effectiveness in reducing inflammation associated with the disease. Sarcoidosis is characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs, including the lungs, and these granulomas can lead to significant pulmonary symptoms and functional impairment.

Corticosteroids like prednisone help in managing these symptoms by suppressing the immune response, reducing inflammation, and decreasing the size of granulomas. The treatment is particularly beneficial for patients who exhibit significant pulmonary involvement or worsening lung function.

While antibiotics can treat infections, they do not address the underlying inflammatory process of sarcoidosis. Bronchodilators may help relieve symptoms in cases where there is accompanying bronchospasm, but they do not modify the disease course. Immunosuppressive agents can be considered in severe or refractory cases, but they do not have the same level of efficacy as steroids when used as first-line therapy for pulmonary sarcoidosis. Thus, prednisone remains the cornerstone of treatment in managing this condition effectively.