Sjögren’s disease
An autoimmune condition often presenting with dry eyes and mouth. Other organs may be affected in addition to the glands.
About the condition
An autoimmune condition often presenting with dry eyes and mouth. Other organs may be affected in addition to the glands.
Immune injury to exocrine glands reduces tears and saliva. Medicines and other conditions also cause dryness and need consideration.
Symptoms
Dry eyes and mouth, fatigue and joint pain occur. Other organs can also be involved.
Gritty eyes, needing water with dry food and increased dental decay are typical. Gland swelling, neuropathy and lung involvement may occur.
Diagnosis
Assessment includes tear and saliva production and antibodies such as anti-SSA. A minor salivary gland biopsy may be needed.
Schirmer testing and ocular surface assessment complement immune tests. Negative antibodies do not always exclude disease; integrate all findings.
Treatment
Eye and mouth moisturising treatments and dental prevention help. Systemic therapy depends on disease manifestations.
Choose tear substitutes, oral care and dental prevention. Organ involvement requires a different approach from isolated dryness.
Monitoring
Keep dental and eye appointments. Persistent swelling of salivary glands or lymph nodes needs medical review.
ESSPRI reflects symptoms; ESSDAI is clinician-assessed. Persistent gland swelling, night sweats or unexplained weight loss need unscheduled review.
Sources
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