sjogren's syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
what is Sjogrens syndrome?
A
-an autoimmune condition that affects parts of the body that produce fluids (exocrine glands)
2
Q
what is the difference between primary and secondary Sjogren’s syndrome?
A
Primary= the condition occurs in isolation
Secondary= the condition occurs related to SLE and RA
3
Q
How does Sjogren’s syndrome present?
A
- dry mouth
- dry eyes
- dry throat
- vaginal dryness
4
Q
what antibodies are often found in Sjogren’s syndrome?
A
anti-Ro
Anti-La
5
Q
what test is often performed to diagnose Sjogren’s and how is it performed?
A
Shirmer test:
- a piece of folded filter paper is inserted under thelower eyelid with a strip hanging out over the eyelid
- this is left for 5 minutes and the distance of which the moisture travelled is measured
- in a healthy adult they should travel 15mm
6
Q
what is the treatment for Sjogren’s?
A
No current cure
Lifestyle change:
- avoid smoking + drinking alcohol
- avoid dry, windy places
- avoid reading, watching TV for a long time
- good oral hygiene
- Eye drops
- sprays, lozenges and gels to keep mouth wet
- vaginal lubricants
Hydroxychloroquine may be used
7
Q
what are some of the complications associated with Sjogren’s?
A
- lymphoma
- pneumoni an bronchectasis
- peripheral neuropathy
- vasculitis
- renal impairement
