Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects people across the globe, often attacking the lungs, skin, and lymph nodes. Traditionally, the treatment protocol involves corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants, but these come with a range of side effects that patients find difficult to tolerate over the long term. Thankfully, new scientific research and innovative therapies are opening doors for safer, non-invasive alternatives.
In recognition of Sarcoidosis Awareness Month—celebrated each April—we dive into four promising noninvasive sarcoidosis treatment options that reshape how patients manage their symptoms and reclaim their quality of life.
1. Efzofitimod: The Protein with a Promise
One of the most talked-about breakthroughs in recent months is efzofitimod, an investigational immunomodulator developed by aTyr Pharma, a San Diego-based biotech firm. This engineered version of a naturally occurring protein aims to reduce inflammatory cell activity that contributes to sarcoidosis.
In March 2025, researchers at Scripps Research in California, in collaboration with aTyr, published a compelling study in Science Translational Medicine. Their findings revealed that efzofitimod significantly improved lung function and reduced inflammation markers in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis.
“Efzofitimod represents a novel approach that targets the root of inflammation rather than just treating the symptoms,” said Dr. Sanjay Shukla, CEO of aTyr Pharma. “Our early data shows real promise for safer, long-term disease management.”
The Phase 3 EFZO-FIT™ clinical trial, currently underway, is enrolling patients from multiple locations across the United States, including Boston, Atlanta, and Chicago. If successful, it may become the first FDA-approved biologic specifically for sarcoidosis.
2. Targeting ILC1 Cells: Unlocking New Diagnostics and Treatments
Another promising development comes from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. In September 2024, a team of immunologists discovered that sarcoidosis patients have abnormally high levels of type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1S) in granulomas—those clumps of immune cells that are the hallmark of the disease.
This discovery not only improves our understanding of how sarcoidosis develops but also provides a non-invasive biomarker for diagnosis. More importantly, targeting ILC1S may offer a treatment avenue that avoids the pitfalls of long-term steroid use.
“Knowing exactly which immune cells are overactive gives us a bullseye,” said lead researcher Dr. Andrea Stocco. “We’re not just shooting in the dark anymore.”
The American Thoracic Society hailed their findings as a potential game-changer, emphasising the importance of early detection and personalised care in chronic lung conditions.
3. Immunomodulatory Therapies & Sensonica’s Non-invasive Approach
While corticosteroids remain the first line of defence, patients and clinicians are increasingly looking for gentler therapies that still get the job done. Enter immunomodulatory agents like methotrexate, azathioprine, and hydroxychloroquine, commonly used off-label to suppress immune activity with fewer side effects.
But more holistic and tech-driven approaches are beginning to catch on as well. One such resource is noninvasive sarcoidosis treatment by Sensonica, which promotes patient-friendly, low-risk solutions designed to complement or replace aggressive medications.
Sensonica emphasises the role of wearable technology, guided breathing exercises, and digital monitoring platforms to track symptoms, inflammation levels, and even oxygen saturation, all from the comfort of home.
“We’re seeing a shift from reactive to proactive care,” said Sensonica co-founder Rachel Lim. “Patients can now monitor flare-ups in real time and adjust lifestyle factors that contribute to inflammation. It’s empowering.”
Such approaches align with current telehealth trends and are especially beneficial for rural patients or those with limited access to specialist care.
4. Support Networks and Awareness: Healing Through Community
Treatment isn’t always about pills and procedures. Emotional support, education, and community are also essential, especially when navigating a chronic illness. That’s why April’s Sarcoidosis Awareness Month, spearheaded by the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research (FSR), is so vital.
According to FSR, over 175,000 Americans are currently diagnosed with sarcoidosis, while the global number exceeds 1.2 million. It’s more prevalent among African Americans, particularly women aged 20 to 40.
“I was misdiagnosed for years,” said sarcoidosis survivor Lisa Reynolds, who now leads a support group in Dallas, Texas. “Joining a community helped me understand that I’m not alone. I finally found my voice—and a better treatment plan.”
Through webinars, patient toolkits, and partnerships with local hospitals, organisations like FSR are helping patients take charge of their care. In 2025, their “Stand Up for Sarc” campaign featured events in New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle, spotlighting stories from real patients and encouraging more research funding.
Bridging the Gap Between Hope and Healing
With scientific advances and patient-centred innovation gaining traction, the landscape of sarcoidosis care is evolving for the better. Non-invasive treatments are no longer a pipe dream—they’re fast becoming a reality for thousands of patients.
In this new era of healthcare, it’s clear that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Whether it’s lab-grown proteins like efzofitimod, targeting specific immune cells, or harnessing digital tools to track your health, there’s more than one way to tackle sarcoidosis, without resorting to invasive procedures or life-altering side effects.
If you’re living with sarcoidosis, talk to your physician about emerging treatments, clinical trials, or digital care programs that could work for your lifestyle and medical profile. As always, knowledge is power, and staying informed may be the best medicine of all.
