Pseudo-Sjögren syndrome with hyperlipoproteinemia

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Endocrinology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Parotid enlargement can present with diverse musculoskeletal complaints.
• Patients often exhibit comorbidities such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus.
• Hyperlipoproteinemia is frequently observed in these cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the underlying causes of parotid enlargement in patients presenting with musculoskeletal symptoms.
• To differentiate parotid enlargement associated with metabolic disorders from autoimmune conditions like Sjögren syndrome.
• To identify common clinical characteristics and comorbidities in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of eight patients with parotid enlargement and musculoskeletal complaints.
• Clinical assessment including medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
• Evaluation for hyperlipoproteinemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and other relevant conditions.

Main Results:

• All eight patients were overweight and hypertensive; six had diabetes mellitus.
• Four patients had palpable hepatomegaly, and six were aged 49 years or older.
• Hyperlipoproteinemia (Type IV or IIB) was present in all patients; none abused alcohol.
• Associated conditions included fibrositis, osteoarthritis, gout, Reiter syndrome, and restless legs syndrome.
• None of the patients met the criteria for true Sjögren syndrome.

Conclusions:

• Parotid enlargement in this cohort is associated with metabolic syndrome components rather than Sjögren syndrome.
• Musculoskeletal complaints in patients with parotid enlargement warrant evaluation for underlying systemic and metabolic diseases.
• Early identification and management of metabolic risk factors are crucial in patients with unexplained parotid enlargement.