Sjorgren's syndrome

Question 1

What is sjorgren’s syndrome?

Answer 1

an autoimmune condition that affects the exocrine glands.

It leads to the symptoms of dry mucous membranes, such as dry mouth, dry eyes and dry vagina.

Question 2

Primary Sjogren’s?

Answer 2

condition occurs in isolation

Question 3

Secondary Sjorgren’s?

Answer 3

where it occurs related to SLE or rheumatoid arthritis.

Question 4

Sjorgren’s syndrome is associated with which antibodies?

Answer 4

Anti-Ro and Anti-La antibodies

Question 5

What is the Schirmer Test?

Answer 5

The Schirmer test involves inserting a folded piece of filter paper under the lower eyelid with a strip hanging out over the eyelid. This is left in for 5 minutes and the distance along the strip hanging out that becomes moist is measured. The tears should travel 15mm in a healthy young adult. A result of less than 10mm is significant.

Question 6

Management?

Answer 6

Artificial tears
Artificial saliva
Vaginal lubricants
Hydroxychloroquine is used to halt the progression of the disease.

Question 7

Complications

Answer 7

Eye infections such as conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers

Oral problems such as dental cavities and candida infections

Vaginal problems such as candidiasis and sexual dysfunction

Question 8

Sjogrens can rarely affect other organs causing complications such as:

Answer 8

Pneumonia and bronciectasis

Non-Hodgkins lymphoma

Peripheral neuropathy

Vasculitis

Renal impairment