Sjögren’s syndrome

Abstract

Abstract Sjögren’s syndrome is a slowly progressive, inflammatory autoimmune disease primarily affecting exocrine glands. Lymphocytic infiltrates replace functional epithelium and lead to decreased exocrine secretion of salivary and lacrimal glands - xerocrinopathy. Glands of intestinal system and pulmonary tract, skin and vaginal mucosa may also be affected. The most common extraglandular manifestations of primary Sjögren’s syndrome include skin vasculitis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, functional renal abnormalities, neuropathy and arthritis symptoms. This disorder may appear separately as a primary Sjögren’s syndrome or in connection with other inflammatory rheumatic diseases as secondary Sjögren’s syndrome. Treatment of the disease is based on topical ocular and oral therapy, extraglandular manifestations need to be treated with hydroxychloroquine and severe cases even with corticosteroid or immunosuppressive drugs.