Context
Researchers in Japan have identified a self-sustaining interaction among immune cells that may drive the persistent autoimmune response in Sjogren’s disease, offering new insights into its underlying mechanism.
About Sjogren’s disease
- Sjogren’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body’s moisture-producing glands.
- It primarily affects the tear and salivary glands, leading to persistent dryness of the eyes and mouth.
- It may occur independently or in association with autoimmune disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- The exact cause remains unknown, although genetic susceptibility is believed to play a role.
- Factors such as viral infections, hormonal changes, and stress may trigger the disease in susceptible individuals.
- It can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in people above 40 years of age.
- Nearly 90% of diagnosed adult patients are women.
- Common symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, swelling of glands in the face and neck, joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, dry skin, skin rashes, vaginal dryness, and a persistent dry cough.
- In some cases, the disease may also affect organs such as the liver and kidneys.
- A small proportion of patients may develop lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.
- There is currently no cure for Sjogren’s disease.
- Treatment focuses on symptom management by relieving dryness and improving lubrication of affected tissues.
