The clinical spectrum of primary Sjögren's syndrome: beyond exocrine glands

Reumatismo. 2017 Sep 21;69(3):93-100. doi: 10.4081/reumatismo.2017.1032.

Abstract

Although primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a mild indolent chronic disease mainly characterized by mucosal dryness in the majority of cases, a consistent subgroup of patients display extra-glandular manifestations. Virtually any organs and systems can be affected, leading to a more serious disease prognosis. Therefore, the prompt identification of patients at higher risk of extra-glandular manifestations is necessary to start a thorough follow up and an aggressive treatment. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview of epidemiological, clinical and serological features of extra-glandular manifestations in pSS as well as current knowledge about putative biomarkers useful in clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular System / pathology
  • Digestive System / pathology
  • Humans
  • Kidney / pathology
  • Lung / pathology
  • Musculoskeletal System / pathology
  • Nervous System / pathology
  • Organ Specificity
  • Sjogren's Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Sjogren's Syndrome / pathology*
  • Skin / pathology