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Thyroid dysfunction in primary Sjögren's syndrome: a long-term followup study.
Frédérique D'Arbonneau1, Séverine Ansart, Rozenn Le Berre
1Laboratory of Immunology, Brest University Medical School Hospital, F-29609 Brest Cedex, France.
Arthritis and Rheumatism
|December 16, 2003
Summary
Thyroid dysfunction and autoantibodies are common in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Autoantibodies can predict future thyroid disorders in pSS patients, highlighting the need for monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Thyroid dysfunction is a known comorbidity in autoimmune conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and autoantibodies in pSS patients.
- To determine the development of thyroid abnormalities over time in pSS.
Main Methods:
- 137 pSS patients and 120 controls were evaluated for thyroid dysfunction and anti-thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, ATG).
- Follow-up ranged from 1-16 years for pSS patients; controls were re-evaluated after 3 years.
Main Results:
- Thyroid disease occurred significantly more often in pSS patients (30%) than controls (4%).
- Anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and antithyroglobulin (ATG) antibodies were more frequent in pSS patients.
- Thyroid dysfunction developed in 12 of 97 euthyroid pSS patients during follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid dysfunction is highly prevalent in primary Sjögren's syndrome.
- Thyroid-related autoantibodies, rheumatoid factor, and anti-Ro/SSA activity can identify pSS patients at risk for thyroid disorders.