Diagnostic markers of Sjögren's syndrome

Establishing a diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome (SS) has been difficult without sensitive laboratory markers, and in light of the non-specificity of the symptoms of dry eyes and mouth. Rather than complaints about dry eyes or dry mouth, objective symptoms and extraglandular manifestations should raise suspicion of SS. This evaluation requires the detection of antibodies against Ro (SSA) and La (SSB) or a pathologic salivary gland biopsy. Since an invasive biopsy is not always performed, further diagnostic markers are required. Recently antibodies against alpha-fodrin have been shown to be present in the majority of untreated patients, and can be used in the screening process of SS as an additional marker.