Case Discussion
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women
(female to male ratio 9:1.3) with a prevalence ranging from 0.1% to
4.8%. It is characterized by inflammation of exocrine glands such as
the salivary and lacrimal glands. Diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome can be
complex due to similarities with other conditions like rheumatoid
arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and cryoglobulinemia.
Biomarkers such as rheumatoid factor and autoantibodies (e.g., Ro/SSA)
play a crucial role in distinguishing Sjogren’s from other conditions
like SLE. The disease also has systemic manifestations, including liver
involvement due to autoimmune liver disease and elevated LDH (Lactate
Dehydrogenase) levels. Additionally, hematological abnormalities, such
as anemia (34.1%), leukopenia (14-42%), and thrombocytopenia (5-15%),
are common. These abnormalities are often overlooked but can precede
typical symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis. The mechanisms involved
in Sjogren’s syndrome include cytokine-mediated inflammation and an
immune response involving innate and adaptive immunity, leading to
autoimmunity. Elevated LDH levels are also noted, underscoring the
systemic nature of the disease. Hematological abnormalities, including
anemia (34.1%), leukopenia (14-42%), and thrombocytopenia (5-15%),
are common but often overlooked as clinically insignificant laboratory
findings. However, they can precede typical symptoms, delaying
diagnosis. Mechanisms involve cytokine-mediated inflammation and
autoimmune mechanisms targeting red blood cells and platelets.