Sjogrens syndrome in Nigerians with rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Background: Sjogren’s Syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder, characterized by lymphocytic infiltration and malfunction of the exocrine glands. When it presents alone, it is referred to as primary Sjorgren’s syndrome and secondary when presented in the context of an underlying connective tissue disease. The main clinical symptoms are dry eyes and xerostomia. A number of auto-antigens and auto-antibodies have been described which may play a central role in the pathogenesis of the disease.

Methodology: This was a retrospective study of all the rheumatology cases over a three year (January 2011-December 2013) period. The records of cases suggestive of Sjogren’s syndrome were retrieved for further study. Necessary information was derived from cases that met the diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome. Diagnosis was made based on symptomatology of dry eyes and dry mouth and the Ophthalmologist’s assessment in patients with an established diagnosis of connective tissue disorder.

Results: Six patients met the diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome out of the 472 rheumatology cases seen, constituting 1.27% of the total cases of rheumatology seen over the study period.There were 5 females (83.3%) and a male (16.7%). Twenty one were cases of rheumatoid arthritis of which six developed dry mouth and eyes suggestive of Sjogren’s syndrome.

Conclusion: Sjogren’s syndrome is not a common disorder in our clinic; it is preponderant in females and related to rheumatoid arthritis, it should also be considered in patients with other types of connective tissue disorders when they