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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
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Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Salivary Glands for Sjogren's Syndrome: Diagnostic and Monitoring Insights
Published on: October 13, 2023
[B lymphocytes in Sjögren's syndrome]
J-O Pers1, L Le Pottier, V Devauchelle
1Laboratoire d'immunologie, centre hospitalier universitaire de Brest, B.P. 824, 29609 Brest, France.
La Revue De Medecine Interne
|April 12, 2008
Summary
Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease affecting glands. Research shows B-cells play a key role in SS pathogenesis, making B-cell targeted therapies effective.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Autoimmunity
- Epithelial Biology
Background:
- Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune epithelitis characterized by epithelial cell disruption and lymphocytic infiltration of lacrimal and salivary glands, leading to dryness.
- The etiology of SS is multifactorial, involving genetic and environmental factors, with potential modulation by viruses and sex hormones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the compelling evidence implicating B-cells in the pathophysiology of Sjögren's syndrome.
- To highlight the shift in understanding from T-cell centric to B-cell centric roles in SS pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating lymphocyte involvement in Sjögren's syndrome.
- Analysis of recent findings on B-cell functions and their relevance to SS.
Main Results:
- While T-cells have been historically emphasized, recent evidence highlights the significant role of B-cells in SS.
- Elevated levels of B-cell activating factor (BAFF) contribute to B-cell abnormalities in SS, including the development of self-reactive B-cells.
Conclusions:
- Sjögren's syndrome serves as a model for B-cell-mediated autoimmunity.
- B-cell-ablative treatments have demonstrated considerable efficacy in managing SS, supporting the central role of B-cells.
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