Syndrome of Sjogren

DefinitionSjogren's syndrome is an inflammatory disease. The immune system destroys cells in exocrine glands. It occurs most often the tear and salivary glands. It is a lifelong condition. There are two types:
  • Primary Sjogren's syndrome—occurs alone
  • Secondary Sjogren's syndrome—occurs with other rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis,scleroderma, or systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)
Causes

The causes of Sjogren's are unknown. Contributing factors may include:
  • Viral infections
  • Heredity
  • Hormones
Risk
Factors that increase your risk for Sjogren's include:
  • Sex: female
  • Age: 40-60 years old
  • Other rheumatic or autoimmune diseases
Symptoms
  • Symptoms may include:
  • Red, burning, itching, and/or dry eyes
  • Dry mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of taste and smell
  • Dry skin, nose, throat, and/or lungs
  • Swollen salivary glands
  • Severe dental cavities caused by dry mouth
  • Oral yeast infections
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Skin rashes
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Fatigue
In some cases, other parts of the body are affected as well. These include:
  • Blood vessels
  • The nervous system
  • Organs such as the lungs, liver, pancreas, kidneys, and thyroid

Anti Ro antibodies are often present with Sjogren's. These may cross to the baby during pregnancy. In some cases, they can cause neonatal lupus or infant heartblock.