Sjögren syndrome

Sjögren syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly reacts to the tissue in glands that produce moisture, such as tear and salivary glands. It is a chronic, inflammatory disease that often progresses to a more complex systemic disorder that can affect other tissues and organs in the body such as joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, nervous system and intestinal tract. Sjögren syndrome is characterized by an unusual accumulation (infiltration) of a particular type of white blood cell, lymphocytes, in the glands that are responsible for fluid production. Sjögren syndrome affects the amount and quality of saliva and tears produced by glands, leading to distinctive features, including a dry mouth and dry eyes, that are referred to as "sicca syndrome." Other mucous membranes may also become abnormally dry. People with this condition often have a feeling of sand or grit in the eyes, swollen salivary glands, difficulty swallowing, and a decreased sense of taste. Sjögren syndrome can affect anyone at any age, but the majority of those afflicted are older than 40, and women are nine times more likely than men to have the disorder. It is estimated to be the second most common autoimmune disease, after lupus. The cause of Sjögren syndrome is not known, but researchers think it may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is thought that a trigger such as a bacterial or viral infection may prompt development of Sjögren syndrome in some people who are genetically predisposed to the disorder. Complications can develop in relation to Sjögren syndrome and may include salivary gland infections and tumors, dental cavities, damage to the eyes, kidney disease and lung infections. Pregnant women who have autoantibodies related to Sjögren syndrome may have higher risk of miscarriage. Sjögren syndrome has also been associated with a higher risk of developing lymphoma. There is no single test that can definitively diagnose Sjögren syndrome. Usually a health practitioner will order laboratory tests and other types of tests, and the results are considered with other factors such as signs and symptoms and results of a physical exam to make a diagnosis.