Sjogren's syndrome (Sjogren's)

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which lymphocytes, a type of immune cell, infiltrate the exocrine glands that produce tears and saliva, and this infiltration together with polyclonal B-cell activation and autoantibody production against Ro and La antigens is thought to drive the resulting glandular dysfunction. Over time this reduces the glands' ability to keep the eyes and mouth moist, and the same immune activity can extend to other tissues in some people. Sjogren's can occur alone or alongside another autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

A systematic review and meta-analysis estimated that primary Sjogren's affects roughly 0.2 to 3.0 percent of the population, with a pooled incidence around 7 per 100,000 person-years, and research consistently finds it affects women far more often than men, at a ratio near 9 to 1.

Common signs

Persistent dry eyes (gritty or burning) and dry mouth, along with difficulty swallowing dry foods, dental problems, and dryness elsewhere. Many people also have fatigue and joint pain, and some experience dryness of the skin or other glands.

This is a plain-language summary for orientation, not a diagnosis. Mechanisms are described as current understanding, not settled fact. Work with your own clinician for your care.