Sjogren syndrome
Sjogren Syndrome
Sjogren Syndrome (pronounced SHOW-grins) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands, primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands. This results in persistent dryness of the mouth and eyes, among other symptoms.
Etymology
The condition is named after Swedish ophthalmologist Henrik Sjogren, who first described it in 1933.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of Sjogren Syndrome are:
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
- Dry eyes (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
In some cases, the condition can also affect other parts of the body, including the skin, joints, lungs, kidneys, blood vessels, digestive organs, and nerves.
Causes
The exact cause of Sjogren Syndrome is unknown, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It's also associated with other autoimmune disorders, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Sjogren Syndrome can be challenging due to the wide range of symptoms and their similarity to those of other conditions. It typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, blood tests, and specific diagnostic tests for dry eyes and mouth.
Treatment
While there's no cure for Sjogren Syndrome, treatments can help manage symptoms. These may include artificial tears, medications to stimulate saliva production, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sjogren syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Sjogren syndrome
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