Sjogren Syndrome
Etiology
-Autoimmune disease
Method of Tranmission
-Not applicable
Characteristics
-Blurring of vision, burning and itching of the eyes.
-Most patients complain of severe photophobia-sensitivity to light.
-Xerostomia, difficulty swallowing, altered taste, and difficult wearing prosthetic devices.
-Submandibular glands or parotid glands become enlarged in about 50% of patients.
-A triad manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis, xerostomia, and keratoconjunctivitis.
Dental Implcations
-Xerostomia increases the risk for caries.
-Patients should be periodically monitored for neoplastic changes in parotid gland.
Treatment and Prognosis
-Usually treated by managing the symptoms of the disease.
-Artificial saliva, Fluoride treatment, Eye drops.
pg. 405-407