Sjogren's Syndrome »
What is Sjogren's syndrome?
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases are characterized by the
abnormal production of extra antibodies in the blood that are directed
against various tissues of the body. This particular autoimmune illness features inflammation in certain glands of the body. Inflammation of the
glands that produce tears (lacrimal glands) leads to decreased water
production for tears and eye dryness. Inflammation of the glands that
produce the saliva in the mouth (salivary glands, including the parotid
glands) leads to dry mouth and dry lips.
Sjogren's syndrome with gland inflammation (resulting dry eyes and mouth, etc.) that is not associated with another connective tissue disease is referred to as primary Sjogren's syndrome.
Sjogren's syndrome that is also associated with a connective tissue disease, such as
rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma, is referred to as secondar...
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