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Sjogren's syndrome and keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
R L Farris1, R N Stuchell, R Nisengard
1Department of Ophthalmology, College of Physician and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY.
Cornea
|May 1, 1991
Summary
This study found a lower incidence of Sjogren's Syndrome (SS) autoantibodies in patients with dry eye disease (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) than previously thought. Many patients still showed reduced salivary flow, indicating potential autoimmune involvement.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), or dry eye disease, often presents with dry mouth and arthritis.
- Sjogren's Syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder frequently associated with KCS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence of specific autoantibodies and salivary dysfunction in KCS patients.
- To reassess the prevalence of Sjogren's Syndrome in KCS based on current diagnostic criteria.
Main Methods:
- Patients with KCS underwent tear osmolarity tests, Schirmer tear tests, stimulated parotid salivary flow measurements, and serum analysis for autoantibodies (SS-A, SS-B, ANA, DNA, RF).
Main Results:
- A lower incidence of SS-A/SS-B (1-3%), ANA (41-47%), DNA (11-16%), and RF (9-12%) antibodies was observed compared to prior studies.
- Reduced salivary-stimulated parotid flow was detected in 59% of KCS patients.
- The study indicates a potentially lower prevalence of SS in KCS patients than previously estimated.
Conclusions:
- The serological markers for Sjogren's Syndrome appear less frequently in KCS patients than previously reported.
- Despite lower antibody prevalence, impaired salivary function remains common in KCS, suggesting complex autoimmune interactions.