What Is Sjögren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks moisture-producing glands — mainly the tear and salivary glands. It can occur alone (primary) or with other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus (secondary).
Symptoms
- Dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) — gritty, burning, irritated eyes
- Dry mouth (xerostomia) — difficulty swallowing, altered taste, dental decay
- Enlarged parotid (jaw) glands
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Skin rash (annular erythema)
- Vaginal dryness
Systemic Complications
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Interstitial lung disease
- Kidney involvement (renal tubular acidosis)
- Lymphoma (B-cell lymphoma risk is 15–20× higher than general population)
Diagnostic Blood Tests
| Test | Findings in Sjögren's |
|---|---|
| ANA | Positive in ~80% (often speckled pattern) |
| Anti-Ro/SSA | Positive in ~70% — most specific test for Sjögren's |
| Anti-La/SSB | Positive in ~40% — typically alongside Anti-Ro |
| Rheumatoid factor | Positive in ~50% |
| IgG (immunoglobulins) | Elevated (polyclonal hypergammaglobulinaemia) |
| ESR | Elevated in active disease |
| Full Blood Count | Lymphopaenia, anaemia |
FAQs
Is Sjögren's treatable?
There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed — artificial tears for dry eyes, saliva substitutes, pilocarpine to stimulate gland secretion. Hydroxychloroquine reduces fatigue and joint pain.
Can Sjögren's antibodies affect pregnancy?
Yes — Anti-Ro/SSA can cross the placenta and cause neonatal lupus and congenital heart block. Pregnant women with Sjögren's need specialist monitoring.
What is the difference between primary and secondary Sjögren's?
Primary: no other major autoimmune disease. Secondary: occurs alongside RA, lupus or scleroderma. Secondary Sjögren's tends to be milder.
Medical Disclaimer: Sjögren's syndrome diagnosis and management should involve a rheumatologist. Lymphoma surveillance is important for long-term follow-up.