Recurrent Unprovoked Deep Vein Thromboses in the Setting of Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is described as a state of immune-mediated chronic systemic inflammatory disease that is typically characterized by non-caseating granulomas. It involves multiple organs like the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes, skin, and liver. Besides the solid organ involvement, it is also known to be associated with various pro-thrombotic states leading to pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. Mechanical factors causing the venous stasis were considered the major contributing factors. However, based on recent studies, chronic inflammation from macrophages and activated leukocytes are also hypothesized to further activate thrombin and fibrin formation. Regardless of the etiology, the management focuses on life-long anticoagulation to prevent further episodes of thrombosis. Herein we present a case of a 38-year-old male with a history of sarcoidosis who was admitted after having recurrent deep vein thromboses. Further investigations revealed a negative hypercoagulable workup or other auto-immune processes and the absence of any granulomas causing mechanical compression on large vessel venous vasculature. He was adequately managed with anticoagulation therapy and followed up outpatient with no further similar episodes. This case adds to the growing understanding that the mechanisms by which sarcoidosis induces thromboembolism is primarily pro-inflammatory rather than mechanical in nature.