Sjögren's Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Sjögren's syndrome

The English term for 謝格連氏症 is Sjögren's syndrome.
Patients can develop this condition due to an autoimmune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own moisture-producing glands, leading to symptoms such as dry mouth and dry eyes.
Treatment typically focuses on alleviating symptoms and may include the use of artificial tears, saliva substitutes, and medications to stimulate saliva production.
In some cases, immunosuppressive therapies may be used to manage more severe manifestations of the disease.

cc, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/02/27

Dr. Zheng Hongyi reply Internal Medicine

Hello, I am Dr.
Cheng.
Regarding your question, the full name of Sjögren's syndrome is Sjögren's syndrome.
This condition is not caused by an infection; it is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by abnormal immune system activity.
It leads to lymphocytic infiltration, resulting in the atrophy and destruction of the lacrimal and salivary glands, which decreases their secretion capacity and reduces fluid production.
This disease often occurs in conjunction with rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other conditions, but it can also occur independently.
There is no cure for this disease, and treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms.

Reply Date: 2002/02/27

More Info

Sjögren's Syndrome, known as "Sjögren's syndrome" in English, is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized primarily by dry eyes and dry mouth due to the immune system attacking the glands that produce these fluids. It is important to clarify that Sjögren's syndrome is not an infectious disease; rather, it arises from an autoimmune response where the body's immune system mistakenly targets its own tissues. This condition can occur as a primary disorder or secondary to other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Causes
The exact cause of Sjögren's syndrome remains unclear, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Some studies suggest that viral infections may trigger the autoimmune response in genetically predisposed individuals. However, it is crucial to emphasize that Sjögren's syndrome is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

Symptoms
The hallmark symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome include:
1. Dry Eyes (Xerophthalmia): Patients often experience a gritty or burning sensation in their eyes, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the cornea.

2. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): This can result in difficulty swallowing, speaking, and an increased risk of dental cavities and oral infections.

3. Fatigue: Many patients report chronic fatigue that can significantly impact their quality of life.

4. Joint Pain and Swelling: Some individuals may experience arthralgia or arthritis, which can resemble symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Other Symptoms: These may include dry skin, vaginal dryness, and, in some cases, involvement of other organs such as the kidneys, liver, or lungs.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and laboratory tests. Common tests include:
- Blood Tests: To check for specific autoantibodies, such as anti-Ro (SS-A) and anti-La (SS-B).

- Schirmer's Test: To measure tear production.

- Salivary Gland Biopsy: To assess for lymphocytic infiltration in the salivary glands.

Treatment
While there is currently no cure for Sjögren's syndrome, treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Management strategies include:
1. Artificial Tears and Saliva Substitutes: These can help relieve dryness in the eyes and mouth.

2. Medications:
- Pilocarpine (Salagen) and Cevimeline (Evoxac) are medications that stimulate saliva production.

- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may be used for joint pain.

- Corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents may be prescribed for more severe systemic involvement.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Staying hydrated, using humidifiers, and avoiding medications that can exacerbate dryness (like antihistamines) can be beneficial.

4. Regular Dental Care: Patients should maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups to manage the increased risk of cavities.

Conclusion
In summary, Sjögren's syndrome is a complex autoimmune disorder primarily affecting moisture-producing glands, leading to significant discomfort and potential complications. While it cannot be cured, a variety of treatments can help manage symptoms effectively. Patients are encouraged to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized management plan that addresses their specific symptoms and needs. If you or someone you know is dealing with this condition, it is essential to stay informed and proactive in managing the disease.

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