Peripheral neuropathy associated with primary Sjögren's syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Primary Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease.
• Peripheral neuropathy is a potential complication.
• Understanding neuropathy in Sjögren's is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of peripheral neuropathy in primary Sjögren's syndrome.
• To identify clinical and electrophysiological features associated with neuropathy.
• To explore potential differences between neuropathic and non-neuropathic patients.

Main Methods:

• Clinical assessment of 46 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.
• Electrophysiological studies (nerve conduction studies, electromyography).
• Nerve biopsy in select cases.

Main Results:

• Peripheral neuropathy was diagnosed in 21.7% of patients.
• Polyneuropathy was the most common type (7/10 patients).
• Late onset (after 50 years) was more frequent in the polyneuropathy group.
• Electrophysiology suggested predominantly axonopathy.
• Nerve biopsies revealed remyelination, regeneration, and endoneurial microvessel alterations.

Conclusions:

• Peripheral neuropathy is a significant clinical manifestation of primary Sjögren's syndrome.
• Axonal damage and microvascular changes are key pathological features.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of neuropathy in Sjögren's is warranted.