Sjogren's syndrome

(Henrik Samuel Conrad Sjogren, 18991986, Swedish ophthalmologist), chronic, slowly progressive autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands resulting in xerostomia and dry eyes. Approximately one third of patients present with systemic manifestations. The disease may be seen alone (primary Sjogrens syndrome) or associated with other autoimmune rheumatic diseases (secondary Sjogrens syndrome). Decreased secretion of the exocrine glands of the gastrointestinal tract can cause clinical symptoms. The main clinical symptom is dysphagia. It is assumed to be due to decreased salivation or to connective tissue changes in the oesophagus. Upper oesophageal webs and motility disorders have been observed in some of these patients. Moreover, atrophic gastritis and acute and chronic pancreatitis as well as pancreatic exocrine deficiency can occur.

ALB