Sjogren's Syndrome Flashcards
What is Sjogren’s syndrome?
Autoimmune condition which affects exocrine glands
What does Sjogren’s syndrome lead to symptoms of?
Dry mucous membranes eg dry mouth, dry eyes & dry vagina
What is primary Sjogren’s?
Where condition occurs in isolation
What is secondary Sjogren’s syndrome?
Occurs related to SLE or RA
What auto-antibodies are associated with Sjogren’s syndrome?
Anti-Ro
Anti-La
Investigation of Sjogren’s syndrome?
Schirmer test
What is Schirmer test?
- Inserting folded piece of filter paper under lower eyelid with strip hanging out over eyelid
- Leave for 5 mins & distance along strip that becomes moist is measured
How far should tears travel in a healthy adult?
15mm
How far is significant for tears not to travel?
Less than 10mm
Management of Sjogren’s sydnrome?
Artificial tears
Artificial saliva
Vaginal lubricants
Hydroxychloroquine: halts disease progression
Complications of Sjogren’s syndrome?
Eye problems (conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers) Oral problems (cavities, candida) Vaginal problems (candidiasis & sex dysfunction)