Question

Please write a short essay on Sjögren’s syndrome:

•Type of disorder and symptoms

•Lab test methods

•Lab test result interpretation

•Treatment

Answer 1

Sjögren syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that affects body moisture producing glands.

Symptoms:- The primary symptoms is drying of eyes and mouth. Other symptoms may include dry skin,muscle pain, chronic cough,vaginal dryness,etc.

Tests methods:- There are various tests that can be performed as. Blood and urine test, the rose Bengal test, Schirmer's test, salivary- flow rate test,etc

Test results interpretation:- Blood and urine test is done to check the presence of antibodies that are indicative of the condition, such as antinuclear antibody (associated with autoimmune diseases).

The rose bengal test is done to check the state and function of lacrimal gland,with the help of rose bengal dye. Its distinct colour helps in the confirmation of SS.

Schirmer's test is for measuring tear production with the help of filter paper placed inside the lower eyelid after 5 min it's wetness is measured. If less than 5mm liquid then it is indicative of SS.

Treatment:- There is no specific cure and treatment is known to treat sjögren syndrome (SS). You can only take care of it like for dry eyes artificial tears is used, for vaginal dryness lubricants can be used, hydroxychloroquine can be used to treat joint pain,etc.

As it does not have a permanent cure so you have to keep up with medicine throughout your life to get relief from symptoms.