Mortality in Patients With Sjögren Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study Identifying Key Predictors.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Sjögren disease (SjD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder with potential systemic manifestations.
• Quantifying mortality risk and identifying predictors in SjD is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the mortality risk in a large cohort of Sjögren disease patients.
• To identify independent predictors of mortality in Sjögren disease.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, multicenter cohort of 314 Sjögren disease patients was analyzed.
• Data on systemic manifestations, serology, and mortality were collected over a median of 9.5 years.
• Cox proportional hazards models and standardized mortality ratios were used.

Main Results:

• Sjögren disease patients exhibited a 70% increased mortality risk (SMR 1.7) compared to the general population.
• Infections, malignancies, and cardiovascular disease were the primary causes of death.
• Independent mortality predictors identified: older age, C4 hypocomplementemia, elevated ESR, heart failure, and pulmonary involvement.

Conclusions:

• Sjögren disease is associated with significantly elevated mortality.
• Proactive management strategies should address identified risk factors like C4 hypocomplementemia and pulmonary involvement.
• Individualized care plans are essential for improving outcomes in Sjögren disease patients.