Advances in imaging techniques for Sjogren's disease

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging
• Rheumatology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Salivary Glands Ultrasonography (SGUS) is a primary imaging method for suspected Sjogren's disease (SD).
• It is non-invasive, radiation-free, and cost-effective, with established classifications for structural damage (OMERACT scale).
• SGUS abnormalities are prevalent in SD patients, indicating its utility in disease assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of SGUS in diagnosing Sjogren's disease (SD).
• To discuss new and emerging ultrasound techniques for enhanced SD evaluation.
• To explore the utility of other imaging modalities like MRI and PET-CT in SD management.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Salivary Glands Ultrasonography (SGUS) for Sjogren's disease (SD).
• Discussion of B-mode and Doppler-based classifications for SGUS in SD.
• Overview of advanced ultrasound techniques (elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, high-frequency probes) and other imaging modalities (MRI, PET-CT).

Main Results:

• SGUS abnormalities (≥ grade 2) are found in approximately 63% of Sjogren's disease (SD) patients.
• Doppler-based classification can serve as a marker for disease activity and treatment response.
• SGUS aids in detecting complications like lymphoma; advanced techniques and multimodal imaging enhance diagnostic capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Salivary Glands Ultrasonography (SGUS) is a valuable first-line imaging modality for Sjogren's disease (SD).
• Emerging ultrasound technologies and multimodal imaging approaches promise improved sensitivity and specificity in SD diagnosis and management.
• Integration of various imaging techniques offers a comprehensive approach to evaluating Sjogren's disease and its complications.