Sjogren syndrome: a review of the literature and a case report

Sj?gren syndrome is one of the most prevalent autoimmune diseases in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture producing glands. Although Sj?gren syndrome occurs in all age groups in both women and men, women in their fourties are the most affected. Sj?gren's syndrome can occur alone or in the presence of another connective tissue disease, respectively called primary and secundary Sj?gren syndrome. When two of the three clinical hallmarks: keratoconjunctivitis sicca, xerostomia or connective tissue disease are present, Sj?gren 's syndrome should be considered. To confirm the diagnosis of Sj?gren's syndrome several tests are required. e.g. blood tests, ophthalmologic tests and oral tests. Rheumatologists have the primary responsibility for managing Sj?gren's syndrome. Other specialists can treat the related symptoms. The incidence of lymphoma is higher in patients with Sj?gren's syndrome than in the general population. Therefore patients must be monitored carefully for the development of related autoimmune diseases, lymphoma and other complications. Sj?gren's syndrome is serious but generally not fatal if complications are diagnosed and treated early.