Sjögren's Syndrome

Sjögren's Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease, in which the white blood cells attack the moisture-producing glands of the body.  This results in the classical symptoms of dry eyes and dry mouth.  Other organs and organ systems, including the liver, pancreas, kidneys, gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, lungs and central nervous systems, may also be affected.

About half of all cases of Sjögren's syndrome is classified as being Primary, when it occurs alone.  The remaining half occurs in the presence of other autoimmune connective tissue diseases, such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and it is referred to as being Secondary.