Sjogren's Syndrome Flashcards
what is primary sjogren’s syndrome?
chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks moisture-producing glands
symptoms: dry eyes & mouth
what is secondary sjogren’s syndrome?
autoimmune disorder associated with other autoimmune conditions; rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
It involves the immune system attacking moisture-producing glands
dry eyes & mouth
whats the aetiology of sjogren’s syndrome?
not entirely known but SPECULATIVE genetic & environment factors
what is the consequence of having sjogren’s syndrome?
Gradual loss of salivary/lacrimal gland tissue through inflammatory destruction
enlargement major salivary glands - usually symmetrical
Increased risk of lymphoma
Oral & ocular effects result of loss saliva & tears
what is the AECG in regards to diagnosing sjogrens syndrome?
A scoring system, American-European consensus group.
Provided requirements for whos diagnosed with sjogren’s
what are the AECG oral & eye symptoms for sjogren’s?
Oral:
- daily feeling of dry mouth 3+ months
- recurrent salivary swelling
- frequently drink liquid to aid swallowing food
Ocular:
- persistent dry eyes 3+ months
- Recurrent sensation sand/gravel in eyes
- tear substitute used 3+ times daily
whats the test used to assess tear flow rate for sjogren’s?
Schirmer test
what would you do when trying to diagnose a pt with sjogrens?
first look in pt mouth first, is it dry?
Least harmful tests first:
- Unstimulated salivary flow test
- Antibody test
- salivary ultrasound scan
- baseline MRI of major salivary glands
IF UNSURE:
- labial gland biopsy, consent needed
how do you manage a pt with sjogrens?
OH needs to be very good. 5000ppmF toothpaste, salivary stimulants
IF pt presents early, liaise with rheumatologist who may consider immune modulating treatment.
what are complications from sjogren’s?
oral dryness: caries, denture retention, infections, functional issues - speech/swallow
salivary enlargement - sialosis
Lymphoma risk (cancer of lymph nodes)
