Abstract
One hundred and fifty RA patients classified into two equal subgroups according to the presence of sicca symptoms, in addition to seventy five healthy controls. All patients were subjected to self-reported questionnaire about sicca symptoms, DAS 28, Unstimulated whole salivary flow rate (UWSFR), Schirmer's test, ESR, CRP, RF, Anti- CCP, Anti-Ro, Anti-La antibodies, serum and salivary CXC ligand 13 (CXCL13), B cell activating factor (BAFF), ultrasonography for major salivary gland and biopsy of minor salivary gland.
Highlights
Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) was occurring in approximately 30% of RA patients [1] where involvement of exocrine lacrimal and salivary glands occurs
Secondary SS is manifested by dry eyes ( Keratoconjuntivitis sicca) and dry mouth [2]
The study was carried out on one hundred and fifty patients with rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) 2010 criteria for diagnosing of RA [6]
Summary
Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) was occurring in approximately 30% of RA patients [1] where involvement of exocrine lacrimal and salivary glands occurs. The decrease of salivary and lacrimal functions in RA is assumed to be related to the lymphocytic infiltrate present in the affected glands. Diagnosis of SS has traditionally depended on signs, symptoms, serologic test, and invasive procedures such as minor salivary gland biopsy. Work from several independent groups has shown common, consistent, and characteristic findings on parotid and minor salivary gland ultrasound among patients with SS. Salivary ultrasonography is a new method that holds the possibility of noninvasively providing important diagnostic information about major salivary glands in SS without radiation or surgery [4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
