An Intriguing Combination: Sjogren Syndrome Coexisting with Hodgkin Lymphoma

Abstract

While Hodgkin's lymphoma is a lymphoid malignancy, Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder marked by exocrine gland inflammation. Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune condition marked by lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands, primarily the salivary and lachrymal glands, which typically manifests as xerostomia and xerophthalmia. Lymphoma is the most dreaded of these systemic sequelae, which are present in about 50% of individuals with primary SS. These neoplasias are mostly non-Hodgkin and arise from B cells. It is unusual for these two diseases to coexist, and the underlying mechanisms are not entirely understood. Viral infections, genetic components, and persistent antigenic stimulation are a few hypotheses that have been proposed. In patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, Hodgkin's disease can present with a variety of clinical characteristics, including as lymphadenopathy, B symptoms, extranodal involvement, and immunological abnormalities. The impact of therapy on the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. The relationship between these two conditions must be established, and additional research is required to offer potential reasons. Due to the possibility of relapse or the emergence of new malignancies, long-term follow-up is crucial. We discuss the case of a 17-year-old girl who was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma and primary Sjögren’s disease.