Sjogren's

Question 1

What is Sjogren’s syndrome

Answer 1

Chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder
Characterized by diminished lacrimal and salivary
gland secretion

Question 2

What are the common signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome?

Answer 2

MADFRED
Myalgia
Arthralgia
Dry Mouth
Fatigue
Raynaud’s phenomenon
Enlarged parotids
Dry eyes

Question 3

How do most pts with Sjogren’s present?

Answer 3

Dry eyes (xerophthalmia), dry mouth (xerostomia) and fatigue

Question 4

What antibody tests can be done in sjogren’s?

Answer 4

Anti Ro and Anti La Antibodies – 90% of patients

RF & anti ds-DNA antibodies may be seen

Question 5

What other specific investigations can be done in Sjogren’s?

Answer 5

Schirmer’s test- measures tear volume

Salivary gland biopsy may be needed

Question 6

How is Sjogren’s treated?

Answer 6

Mainly symptom control, Immunosuppressants/steroids rarely needed

• Eyes drops
• Artificial saliva, chewing gum
• Moisturiser
• Vaginal lubricants

Question 7

What are the possible consequences of Sjogren’s?

Answer 7

Primary biliary cirrhosis

Lymphoma more likely

Question 8

How is Sjogren’s monitored?

Answer 8

LFTS

Immunoglobulins and LDH for lymphoma