Sjogren's disease

Sjogren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands, particularly the salivary and lacrimal glands. The sicca complex of xerophthalmia and xerostomia are the hallmark features of Sjogren's symptomatology. In addition to these hallmark symptoms of oral and ocular dryness, one third of patients with Sjogren's syndrome present with extraglandular manifestations. Many of these extraglandular manifestations, as well as the sicca symptoms, have otolaryngologic relevance. Sjogren's syndrome patients may present with vague or nonspecific head and neck complaints ranging from oral dryness to hoarseness to hearing loss. An otolaryngologist's high index of suspicion for this disorder may prevent delay in diagnosis, allow appropriate diagnostic evaluation, and optimize therapeutic intervention.