Peripheral neuropathy associated with Sjögren's syndrome: pathologic and immunologic study of two patients.

Abstract

Two cases of Sjögren's syndrome accompanied by peripheral neuropathy are reported. The level of anti-endothelial cell antibody was increased in both patients. Immunofluorescent deposits of immunoglobulin and C3 component were detected in the vasa nervorum of both cases. The pathological findings showed damage to the endothelial cells in the same vessels. The findings suggest that injury from immune complex and anti-endothelial cell antibody may be the immunological factor in the induction of peripheral neuropathy.