Health Encyclopedia

Sjogren syndrome

Definition

Sjogren syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the glands that produce tears and saliva are destroyed. This leads to dry mouth, decreased tearing, and other dry mucous membranes. The condition may affect many different parts of the body, including the kidneys and lungs.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause of Sjogren syndrome is unknown. The syndrome occurs most often in women age 40 - 50. It is rare in children. Young patients usually have signs of another autoimmune disorder first.

The syndrome may be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis, and other diseases.

Sjogren syndrome affects about 1 - 4 million people in the United States.

Symptoms

Dryness of the mouth and eyes are the most common symptoms of this syndrome.

Other symptoms may include:

Signs and tests

A physical examination reveals dry eyes and mouth. Mouth sores may be present because of the mouth dryness.

Tests:

Positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) test
Positive salivary gland biopsy
Positive rheumatoid factor (possible)
Tear test
Slit lamp examination with rose bengal dye

Treatment

The goal is to relieve symptoms. Dry eyes may be treated with artificial tears or eye-lubricating ointments.

Sipping water throughout the day and chewing sugarless gum may help relieve mouth dryness. Avoid medicines that can cause mouth dryness such as antihistamines and decongestants.

Your doctor may prescribe medicine that increases the flow of saliva.

Frequent brushing, flossing of the teeth, and regular dental visits may prevent severe dental cavities associated with the dry mouth.

Arthritis symptoms are commonly treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy.

Expectations (prognosis)

The disease is usually benign and prognosis (probable outcome) depends on associated diseases. There is an increased risk of lymphoma.

Complications

Kidney failure (rare)
Lymphoma
Pulmonary infection
Vasculitis (rare)

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of Sjogren syndrome.

Review Date:5/27/2007
Reviewed By:Steve Lee, DO, Rheumatology Fellow, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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