EULAR Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI): a user guide

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Clinical Immunology

Background:

• The EULAR Sjögren's syndrome (SS) disease activity index (ESSDAI) is a key tool for measuring disease activity in primary SS.
• Accurate and reproducible ESSDAI domain rating is crucial due to its use as a gold standard in clinical studies and trials.
• Challenges exist in consistently rating certain ESSDAI domains.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive user guide for the ESSDAI.
• To offer detailed definitions and clarifications for rating each ESSDAI domain.
• To introduce minor score improvements reflecting advancements in understanding SS manifestations.

Main Methods:

• Development of a user guide with precise definitions for ESSDAI domains.
• Inclusion of updated knowledge on Sjögren's syndrome disease manifestations.
• Guidance on rating specific ESSDAI domains to enhance clarity.

Main Results:

• The user guide aims to improve clinician understanding and application of the ESSDAI.
• Enhanced clarity in ESSDAI domain rating is expected to increase reliability.
• The guide facilitates better detection of true treatment-related changes over time.

Conclusions:

• This ESSDAI user guide enhances the assessment of primary SS patients.
• Improved ESSDAI appraisal, alongside defined activity levels and minimal clinically important change, aids treatment effectiveness demonstration.
• The guide promotes consistent and reliable disease activity measurement in primary SS.