Sjogren's
syndrome is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune
disorder characterized by dry mouth (xerostomia) and
dry eye (keratoconjuctivitis sicca) which represent
the two primary clinical features of this disorder.
Two distinct forms of Sjogren's syndrome are
recognized known as primary and secondary Sjogren's.
Primary Sjogren's syndrome is defined as dry mouth
that is not associated with another underlying
autoimmune disorder, whereas, secondary Sjogren's is
dry eye and dry mouth associated with an underlying
autoimmune connective tissue disorder such as
rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus,
or scleroderma.
It has been estimated that
approximately 1 to 2 million Americans suffer from
Sjogren's syndrome and affects women 9 times more
frequently than men. Symptoms usually begin between
the ages of 30 to 60 and frequently coincide with
the onset of menopause. The exact cause of Sjogren's
syndrome remains unknown and research is ongoing to
try to elucidate the underlying physiological basis
for the disorder.
Although dry mouth and
dry eye are the two primary features of Sjogren's
syndrome, the disorder can become systemic and
affect other organ systems of the body as well.
Systemic manifestations of Sjogren's syndrome may
include fatigue, muscle/joint pain, dry/itchy skin,
gastroesophageal reflux, peripheral neuropathy, and
vaginal dryness (among others). Research has
demonstrated an association between Sjogren's
syndrome and the development of lymphoma.
Currently
there is no know cure for Sjogren's syndrome. The
objectives of treatment are to control the symptoms,
prevent or limit organ involvement, and help
patients improve their quality of life. Treatments
for Sjogren's syndrome vary from patient to patient
depending upon symptoms and which parts of the body
are affected. In general, treatment is focused upon
controlling the symptoms of dry mouth and dry eye
using a variety of different strategies. Treatments
for systemic manifestations of Sjogren's syndrome
will vary depending upon which organs are involved
and the severity of the symptoms.
Hospitals Listing
Batra Hospital
New Delhi
{India}
The
Batra Hospital and Medical
Raffles Hospital
{Singapore}
Raffles Hospital is a 380-bed, tertiary care hospital and the
flagship hospital of the Raffles
Moolchand
New Delhi
{India}
BNH Hospital
{Thailand}
BNH Hospital
OCC World Class Doctors
Call for a Free Consultation
