World Sjogren's Day 2024

World Sjogren Syndrome Day: A Focus on a Less Recognized Autoimmune Condition

Sjögren's Syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disease, disproportionately affects women, with a typical onset between ages 40 and 60. It leads to dry eyes and mouth by attacking moisture-producing glands and can impact various body parts, affecting about 1 in 3333 to 1 in 250 people in Asia.

The cause of Sjögren's Syndrome involves a complex interplay of genetics, environmental triggers, hormonal changes, and immune system dysfunction. It manifests in two forms: primary, where it occurs independently, and secondary, which accompanies other autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Primary Sjögren's predominantly presents with dry eyes and mouth, while secondary Sjögren's features are less severe but compounded by the primary autoimmune disease.

The disease's symptomatology is broad, affecting glands and other bodily systems:

a) Glandular Symptoms: Over 85% of those with primary Sjögren’s experience significant dryness in eyes and mouth, and about 50% exhibit salivary gland enlargement. This dryness complicates swallowing and speaking and heightens the risk of dental issues.

b) Systemic Symptoms: Muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and skin dryness are prevalent, affecting up to 96% of patients. Additional symptoms include Raynaud's phenomenon and, less commonly, complications in the lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Diagnosis is a multi-step process involving symptom evaluation, Schirmer’s test for eye dryness, sialometry for saliva production, blood tests for specific autoantibodies, and imaging to check for gland abnormalities. A biopsy may be necessary for conclusive diagnosis.

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, primarily dry eyes and mouth, using artificial tears, saliva substitutes, and good oral hygiene. Lifestyle adjustments include a well-balanced diet rich in natural foods and high water content to combat dryness. Medications may be prescribed to manage muscle and joint pain, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants (e.g., hydroxychloroquine), or prednisolone.

Overall, Sjögren's syndrome requires personalized treatment strategies and ongoing management to mitigate its effects and improve life quality. Early and accurate diagnosis, coupled with regular monitoring, is vital for effective management and preventing long-term complications.

Dr. Dhashani Sivaratnam

Specialist and Senior Lecturer

Department of Ophthalmology

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Dr. Wong Tzeng Lin

Physician

Department of Medicine

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Date of Input: 23/07/2024 | Updated: 24/07/2024 | nadia_rahman