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Sjogren Syndrome
Medical Questions » Sjogren Syndrome
| Name: Sjogren Syndrome |
| Also known as: |
| A chronic widespread inflammatory condition. |
Causes of Sjogren Syndrome
Auto-immune disease in which the body inappropriately rejects tissue. Closely related to rheumatoid arthritis, but affects more organs. |
Symptoms of Sjogren Syndrome
Common symptoms include widespread arthritis, dry eyes, dry mouth, dry skin and dry throat. Other symptoms may include difficulty in swallowing, decaying teeth, loss of taste and smell, and a hoarse voice. Nearly all patients are women, and it usually commences in the fifth decade. |
Tests for Sjogren Syndrome
Diagnosed by specific blood tests. |
Treatment for Sjogren Syndrome
Anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids (eg. prednisone), and a number of unusual drugs such as gold by injection or tablet, antimalarial drugs (eg. chloroquine) penicillamine (not the antibiotic), and cell-destroying drugs (cytotoxics). Artificial tears and skin moisturisers, and good dental hygiene are also necessary.
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Complications of Sjogren Syndrome of its treatment
Complications may involve inflammation of the pancreas, thyroid and other organs. |
Likely Outcome of Sjogren Syndrome
No cure, but reasonable long-term control is usually possible. |
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