Sjogren's Syndrome

About

Specialities

Find Your Region

About

Specialities

Find Your Region

About the disease & condition

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of exocrine glands, primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to dryness of the eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and mouth (xerostomia). It can occur alone (primary) or alongside other autoimmune diseases (secondary), such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Known Symptoms

Glandular manifestations: Dry eyes (gritty sensation, burning, photophobia).
Dry mouth (difficulty swallowing, dental caries, oral candidiasis). Parotid gland enlargement. Extraglandular
Systemic involvement: Fatigue, arthralgia/arthritis.
Skin (dryness, vasculitis), lung (interstitial lung disease), renal (tubular acidosis). Neurological (peripheral neuropathy), hematological (cytopenias).
Red flags: Lymphoma risk (especially mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue [MALT] lymphoma). Systemic symptoms like unexplained fever or weight loss.

Known Causes

Etiology: Genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-DR3, HLA-DQ2, IRF5, STAT4).
Environmental triggers (e.g., viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus).
Pathophysiology: Autoantibodies (anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB) target glandular tissues. Lymphocytic infiltration causes gland dysfunction, reduced tear and saliva production, and systemic inflammation.

Care

Prevention: No known prevention; early diagnosis to mitigate complications.
Avoid medications that exacerbate dryness (e.g., antihistamines).
Follow-up: Regular monitoring for systemic symptoms and lymphoma. Multidisciplinary care (rheumatology, ophthalmology, dentistry).
Patient education on self-management and symptom recognition.

Note: Sjögren’s syndrome is often underdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms. A high index of suspicion is needed, especially in women with dry symptoms and systemic features. Treatment focuses on improving quality of life and preventing organ damage.

Relevant Specialities

Rheumatology

Rheumatology is the medical specialty focused on conditions affecting the joints, muscles, and immune system.

It supports patients with a range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions that may impact mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. The specialty plays an important role in identifying these conditions early and managing them effectively over time.

At KIMSHEALTH, rheumatology care is delivered through a patient-first approach, focusing on accurate diagnosis, ongoing management, and helping patients maintain mobility and long-term well-being.

Available in Oman

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