Sjogren's Syndrome

Question 1

What is Sjogren’s syndrome?

Answer 1

It is an autoimmune disorder affecting the exocrine glands which leads to dry mucosal surfaces

Question 2

What are the two different types of Sjogren’s

Answer 2

Primary - occurs in isolation

Secondary: where it occurs related to SLE or Rheumatoid arthritis- develops around 10 yrs after initial onset

Question 3

Who is most affected by sjogren’s

Answer 3

most common in females 9:1 ration

Question 4

What is the major risk of in sjogren’s ?

Answer 4

Lymphoid malignancy - 40-60x increase

Question 5

What are the features of Sjogren’s

Answer 5

• dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
• dry mouth
• dry vagina
• arthralgia, myalgia, raynaud’s

Question 6

What investigations would you do for sjogren’s syndrome?

Answer 6

• Anti-Ro 70%
• Anti-la 30%
• Rheumatoid factor positive 50%
• ANA positive 70%

Schirmer’s test - filter paper near conjuctival sac to measure tear formation

histology - local lymphocytic infiltration

Question 7

How do you manage sjogren’s

Answer 7

• artificial saliva and tear
• vaginal lubricants
• hydroxychloroquinone to stop disease progression
• pilocarpine may stimulate saliva production

Question 8

What is the name of a specific test used to help diagnose sjogren’s

Answer 8

Schirmer’s test