Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that targets moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes and dry mouth. It may occur alone or with other autoimmune conditions.
Ocular manifestations
Dry eye is often the earliest or most troublesome symptom.
- Burning, grittiness, redness, and fluctuating blurred vision
- Stringy mucus and difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Potential for filamentary keratitis and corneal ulcers in severe cases
- Associated positive autoantibodies such as anti-Ro/SSA
Management
Treatment aims to relieve dryness and prevent surface damage.
- Frequent preservative-free lubricants and gels
- Punctal plugs, topical cyclosporine, or lifitegrast for moderate-severe disease
- Systemic evaluation and immunomodulatory therapy when indicated
- Regular monitoring for lymphoma risk in long-standing disease
