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Understanding the influence of an Autoimmune Disorder: Sjög
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Der Pharmacia Lettre

Perspective - Der Pharmacia Lettre ( 2023) Volume 15, Issue 9

Understanding the influence of an Autoimmune Disorder: Sjögren's syndrome

Manish Katiya*
 
Department of Rheumatology, St Stephens Hospital, New Delhi, India
 
*Corresponding Author:
Manish Katiya, Department of Rheumatology, St Stephens Hospital, New Delhi, India, Email: katiyamanish@gmail.com

Received: 28-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. DPL-23-116806; Editor assigned: 01-Sep-2023, Pre QC No. DPL-23-116806 (PQ); Reviewed: 15-Sep-2023, QC No. DPL-23-116806; Revised: 22-Sep-2023, Manuscript No. DPL-23-116806 (R); Published: 29-Sep-2023 , DOI: 10.37532/dpl.2023.15.11 , Citations: Katiya M. 2023. Understanding the influence of an Autoimmune Disorder: Sjögren's Syndrome. Der Pharma Lett.15:11-12 ,
Copyright: © 2023 Katiya M. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Description

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the exocrine glands, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes and dry mouth. This condition can also involve various other parts of the body, causing systemic symptoms and complications. Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own exocrine glands, which are responsible for producing saliva and tears. As a result, these glands become inflamed and damaged, leading to dryness in the eyes and mouth. This condition can also affect other parts of the body, including the skin, joints, and internal organs. The exact cause of Sjögren's syndrome is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to the condition, and certain infections or environmental factors may trigger the autoimmune response. Hormonal changes, such as those associated with menopause, can also play a role in the development of Sjögren's syndrome. The common symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome are dry eyes and dry mouth, fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes but the condition can lead to a wide range of other symptoms with internal organ involvement [1-4].

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Sjögren's syndrome can be challenging because the symptoms can overlap with other conditions. To confirm a diagnosis, healthcare providers typically follow these steps:

Medical history: A thorough medical history is taken to identify symptoms and risk factors.

Physical examination: The healthcare provider examines the eyes, mouth, and glands for signs of dryness and inflammation.

Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for specific antibodies associated with Sjögren's syndrome.

Imaging: Imaging tests like salivary gland scintigraphy can assess the function and structure of the salivary glands.

Biopsy: In some cases, a lip or salivary gland biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of lymphocytic infiltrates, a hallmark of Sjögren's syndrome [5].

Management and treatment

Sjögren's syndrome has no cure, but there are various treatment approaches aimed at managing symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment may involve:

Artificial tears and saliva substitutes: Over-the-counter or prescription eye drops and artificial saliva can help relieve dry eyes and mouth.

Immunosuppressive medications: These medications, such as hydroxychloroquine or corticosteroids, may be used to control the autoimmune response and reduce inflammation.

Punctal plugs: These small devices can be inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage, keeping the eyes moist.

Dental care: Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential to prevent dental cavities and gum problems.

Medications for specific symptoms: Medications can be prescribed to manage pain, joint inflammation, and other specific symptoms.

Monitoring organ involvement: In cases where Sjögren's syndrome affects internal organs, close monitoring and specialized treatment may be required [6-7].

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by dry eyes, dry mouth, and a range of other symptoms and complications. While there is no cure, various treatment approaches can help manage the condition and improve the quality of life for those affected. Early diagnosis and ongoing medical care are essential in minimizing the impact of Sjögren's syndrome and preventing further complications. By understanding the symptoms and treatment options, individuals with Sjögren's syndrome can better cope with this challenging autoimmune disorder.

References

  1. Brito-Zerón P, Theander E, Baldini C, et al, Expert Rev Clin Immunol, 2016, 12(2):137-156.
  2. Akpek EK, Vittitow J, Verhoeven RS, et al, J Ocul Pharmacol Ther, 2009, 25(5):433-440.
  3. Ramos-Casals M, Brito-Zerón P, Seror R, et al, Rheumatology, 2015, 54(12):2230-2238.
  4. Gottenberg JE, Ravaud P, Puéchal X, et al, JAMA, 2014, 312(3):249-258.
  5. Qin B, Wang J, Yang Z, et al, Ann Rheum Dis, 2015, 74(11):1983-1989.
  6. Baer AN, Maynard JW, Shaikh F, et al, J Rheumatol, 2010, 37(6):1143-1149.
  7. Ramos-Casals M, Solans R, Rosas J, et al, Medicine, 2008, 87(4):210-219.

Citation: Katiya M. 2023. Understanding the influence of an Autoimmune Disorder: Sjögren's Syndrome. Der Pharma Lett.15:11-12

Copyright: © 2023 Katiya M. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.