[Current status and problems in the treatment of patients with Sjögren's syndrome]

Current status of treatment of patients with Sjögren's syndrome in Japan was reviewed. Although the number of patients with the syndrome has been increasing due to the recent progress in diagnosing and understanding of the disease, treatment of patients still remains unsatisfactory. However a wide variety of methods have become available in the management of patients who have significant dryness of eye and mouth. This includes artificial tear, artificial saliva, moisture shields of glasses, and many other medical and nonmedical preparations. All patients with sicca complaints should receive therapy of tear replacement and intensive oral hygiene. New potential therapeutic approaches for treatment of Sjögren's Syndrome was also reviewed.