Sjogrens Syndrome

Question 1

what are the three classifications of sjogrens syndrome

Answer 1

sicca syndrome
primary sjogrens
secondary sjogrens

Question 2

give four triggers for autoimmune diseases

Answer 2

diet
genetics
toxic chemicals
infection

Question 3

what is sjogrens syndrome associated with

Answer 3

genetic link
anti-La anti-Ro antibodys

Question 4

what are the consequences of sjogrens syndrome

Answer 4

gradual loss of salivary/ lacrimal tissue through inflammatory destruction
enlargement of major saliva glands
increased risk of lymphoma

Question 5

what is a lymphocytic foci

Answer 5

where more than 50 lymphocytes gather

Question 6

what are the five tests for sjogren’s syndrome

Answer 6

ocular symptoms
oral symptoms
ocular signs - schirmer test
histopathology of glands
unstimulated salivary flow test
autoantibody tests

Question 7

what is the schirmer test

Answer 7

calibrated filter paper put under the eyes
red flag if under 5ml in 5 mins

Question 8

what is the volume of saliva produced that would be indicative of sjogren’s syndrome

Answer 8

less than 1.5ml in 15 mins

Question 9

what auto-antibodies are screened for in Sjogren’s testing

Answer 9

anti-Ro
anti-La

Question 10

how is labial gland biopsy performed in sjogren’s syndrome

Answer 10

collection of more than 50 lymphocytes round a duct
more than one focus score consistent with sjogrens

Question 11

what is the management of a patient with sjogren’s

Answer 11

oral health - diet, OHI, 5000ppmF
symptomatic treatment with salivary substitutes (pilocarpine)

Question 12

what can be considered if sjogrens syndrome is too debilitating for just symptomatic treatment

Answer 12

immune modulating treatment with hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate