SJOGREN'S DISEASE

An immunologic mess characterised by progressive destruction of the exocrine glands (sweat glands, lacrimal glands, salivary glands). Symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, persistent cough (dry airways) and lack of saliva. Approximately 30% also have rheumatoid arthritis. Kidney involvement (kidney dysfunction) is seen in 40% of patients. Sjogren's syndrome affects predominately females in their thirties to forties. The lungs, peripheral nerves, blood vessels (vasculitis) and thyroid may also be affected.

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