Ecografía de glándula salival en el Síndrome de Sjögren primario

Introducción: El Síndrome de Sjögren primario es una enfermedad autoinmune que se caracteriza por un proceso inflamatorio que afecta fundamentalmente a las glándulas exocrinas. Existe un interés creciente en el uso de la ecografía de glándulas salivales como una herramienta no invasiva para el diagnóstico del Síndrome de Sjögren primario (SSp). Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos ecográficos de glándulas salivales y de biopsia glandular en pacientes con sospecha de Síndrome de Sjögren primario. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional de corte transversal en el que se incluyó a pacientes adultos con sospecha de SSp. En todos los casos se realizó ecografía y biopsia de glándulas salivales. Se registraron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas, de imagen (i.e. ultrasonido) y el resultado anatomopatológico de las biopsias de glándulas salivales. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables. Resultados: Se incluyeron a 23 pacientes con sospecha de SSp. La edad promedio de los pacientes fue 47,7±11,1 años, y el 96,0% fueron de sexo femenino. En todas las ecografías se constataron hallazgos compatibles con SSp, mientras que en el 96% de las biopsitas se objetivaron datos compatibles con SSp. Conclusión: En esta serie de pacientes, se pudo constatar un alto porcentaje de casos en los que se objetivó cambios compatibles con SSp, tanto en la ecografía de glándulas salivales como en la anatomía patológica.

Introduction : Primary Sjögren's Syndrome is anautoimmune disease that is characterized by an inflammatory process that primarily affects the exocrine glands. There is growing interest in the use of salivary gland ultrasound as a non-invasive tool for the diagnosis of primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS). Objective: To describe the ultrasound findings of salivary glands and glandular biopsy in patients with suspected primary Sjögren's Syndrome. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional observational study including adult patients with suspected pSS . In all cases, ultrasound and salivary gland biopsy were performed. Epidemiological, clinical, imaging (i.e. ultrasound) variables as well as pathology results of salivary gland biopsies were recorded. A descriptive analysis of the variables was carried out. Results: 23 patients with suspected pSS were included. The average age of the patients was 47.7±11.1 years, and 96.0% were female. All ultrasounds showed findings compatible with pSS, while 96% of the biopsies reported results compatible with pSS. Conclusion: In this group of patients, a high percentage of cases showed data compatible with pSS, both in the ultrasound and biopsy of the salivary glands.

Síndrome de Sjögren: identificación de nuevos biomarcadores y mecanismos moleculares implicados en su fisiopatogénesis

Introducción: El Síndrome de Sjögren (SS) es una enfermedad autoinmune de carácter sistémico, que afecta principalmente al sistema glandular exocrino, generando un funcionamiento anormal de las glándulas lacrimales y salivales. Objetivo: proporcionar una actualización sobre la identificación de nuevos biomarcadores y mecanismos moleculares implicados en la fisiopatogénesis del SS. Método: Revisión narrativa de la literatura en diferentes bases de datos, mediante la búsqueda de términos descritos incluidos en los tesauros MESH y DeCs, para artículos publicados a partir del año 2018. Resultados: presentamos evidencia que destaca la identificación de nuevos biomarcadores y mecanismos implicados en la fisiopatogénesis del SS, describiendo las vías de: linfocitos B, catepsina S, cistatina C, quimioquina C-X3-C modificada de ligando 1, quimiocina regulada por activación del timo, células T, proteína morfogenética ósea 6, estimulación del receptor de oxitocina, receptor de zinc, calponina-3. Conclusión: los avances en la tecnología facilita el análisis detallado de la genética y fisiopatogénesis del SS, impulsando el desarrollo de terapias específicas. La búsqueda de biomarcadores no invasivos responde a las limitaciones de los métodos existentes y la invasividad de las biopsias salivales, prometiendo mejoras diagnósticas y terapéuticas.

Introduction: Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the exocrine glandular system, leading to abnormal lacrimal and salivary gland function. Objective: To provide an update on identifying new biomarkers and molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of SS. Method: Narrative review of the literature in various databases, searching for terms included in the MESH and DeCs thesauri, for articles published since 2018. Results: We present evidence highlighting the identification of new biomarkers and mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of SS, describing pathways of B lymphocytes, cathepsin S, cystatin C, modified C-X3-C chemokine ligand 1, thymus activation-regulated chemokine, T cells, bone morphogenetic protein 6, oxytocin receptor stimulation, zinc receptor, and calponin-3. Conclusion: Advances in technology facilitate detailed analysis of the genetics and pathogenesis of SS, driving the development of specific therapies. The search for non-invasive biomarkers is driven by the limitations of existing methods and the invasiveness of salivary gland biopsies, promising diagnostic and therapeutic improvements.

Prevalence of neonatal lupus in a small group of antibody-carrying mothers and frequency of complete atrioventricular block / Prevalencia de lupus neonatal en un pequeño grupo de madres portadoras de anticuerpos y frecuencia de bloqueo auriculoventricular completo

Abstract Background: Neonatal lupus (NL) is extremely rare and is caused by the transplacental passage of maternal IgG autoantibodies against Ro, La, and/or RNP proteins into the fetal circulation, which can cause congenital complete atrioventricular block (CCAB), permanent skin lesions, and liver involvement. Objective: To know the prevalence of NL in patients with CCAB and the clinical course in long-term follow-up. Methods: From January 1992 to December 2017, patients with CCAB were included. The presence of anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La antinuclear antibodies in maternal serum confirmed NL. Results: Eight patients were included with a follow-up of 10 ± 6 years; NL was concluded in 62.5%; two were male. One of them was diagnosed in utero, two at birth, and a pacemaker was implanted in them, one at 12 years of age and another at 15. The other two cases were diagnosed at 18 and 26 years of age, and permanent pacemakers were implanted 8 and 5 years later, respectively. In one case, a definitive pacemaker was not implanted in a newborn with only 1 year of follow-up. At delivery, 60% of the mothers were free of rheumatic disease, and altogether, they all had 19 children; none of them presented NL manifestations. Conclusions: CCAB is rare and frequently associated with a maternal autoimmune disease, practically all of them will require a definitive pacemaker at some point in their lives.

Resumen Antecedentes: El lupus neonatal (LN) es extremadamente raro y es ocasionado por el paso transplacentario de auto-anticuerpos maternos IgG contra las proteínas Ro, La y/o RNP a la circulación fetal que puede ocasionar bloqueo aurículo-ventricular completo congénito (BAVCC) permanente, lesiones dérmicas y afectación hepática. Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de LN en paciente con BAVCC y la evolución clínica en un seguimiento a largo plazo. Métodos: De enero de 1992 a diciembre 2017 se incluyeron paciente con BAVCC. La presencia de anticuerpos antinucleares anti-SSA/Ro y anti-SSB/La en suero materno confirmó LN. Resultados: Ocho pacientes fueron incluidos con seguimiento de 10 ± 6 años, el 62.5 % con LN; dos fueron del sexo masculino. Uno diagnosticado in útero, dos al nacimiento, en ellos se implantó marcapaso; uno a los 12 años de edad y otro a los 15. Los otros dos casos fueron diagnosticados a los 18 y 26 años, se implantó marcapaso definitivo en ellos 8 y 5 años después respectivamente. En un caso no se implantó marcapaso definitivo; un recién nacido con solo un año de seguimiento. Al dar a luz, el 60 % de las madres estaban libres de enfermedad reumática y en conjunto todas tuvieron 19 hijos, ninguno de ellos presentó manifestaciones de LN. Conclusiones: El BAVCC es raro y frecuentemente está asociado a una enfermedad autoinmune materna, prácticamente todos requerirán de marcapaso definitivo en alguna época de su vida.

Clinical Effect of Runzaoling Combined with Iguratimod on Primary Sjögren's Syndrome / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of iguratimod combined with the Chinese medicine Runzaoling in the treatment of primary Sjögren's syndrome （pSS）. MethodSeventy-two patients treated in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine（TCM） from January 2021 to June 2022 who met the Western medical diagnosis of pSS and had the TCM syndrome of Yin deficiency and heat toxin syndrome were randomly assigned into an observation group and a control group， with 36 patients in each group. The observation group was treated with iguratimod combined with Runzaoling， and the control group was treated with iguratimod. The treatment in both groups lasted for 12 weeks. The clinical symptoms， EULAR Sjogren's syndrome patient reported index （ESSPRI）， EULAR Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index （ESSDAI）， erythrocyte sedimentation Rate （ESR）， C-reactive protein （CRP）， immunoglobulin （IgG）， Schirmer score， and saliva flow of the two groups were determined before and after treatment. Furthermore， the incidence of adverse reactions was compared between the two groups. ResultThe total response rate in the observation group was 75.0% （27 patients with response and 9 patients with no response）， which was higher than that （61.11%， 22 patients with response and 14 patients without response） in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the ESSPRI， ESSDAI， and TCM syndrome scores in both groups decreased and the decreases were more obvious in the observation group than in the control group （P<0.05）. The treatment in both groups recovered the ESR， CRP， IgG， Schirmer score， and saliva flow （P<0.05）. Moreover， the observation outperformed the control group in terms of the ESR， CRP， IgG， and saliva flow （P<0.05） and had no significant difference in the Schirmer score compared with the control group. During the treatment period， 2 patients in the observation group had nausea， and 1 patient had an abnormal liver function， which were relieved after symptomatic treatment and did not affect the treatment. In the control group， 1 patient withdrew from the study due to rashes and showed no special discomfort in the follow-up 4 weeks， and 1 patient had nausea， which was relieved after symptomatic treatment. ConclusionIguratimod combined with Runzaoling has good clinical efficacy and safety in the treatment of pSS.

Discussion on the molecular mechanism of Shaoteng Decoction in treating Sjogren's syndrome based on network pharmacology and experimental verification / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective:To screen the active components, target genes and signaling pathways of Shaoteng Decoction in the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome by network pharmacology; To conduct relevant experimental verification to explore the mechanism of action of Shaoteng Decoction in the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome.Methods:The active components and targets of Shaoteng Decoction were collected by retrieving TCMSP. The target genes of Sjogren's syndrome were collected through the GeneCards database. The intersection targets of drugs and diseases were obtained by using Venn. The intersection targets were imported into the STRING database to obtain PPI networks, and the "drug-active component -therapeutic target-disease" network was constructed by Cytospace 3.7.2 software. The DAVID database was used for GO function enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis. The 18 NOD mice were divided into model group, TCM group, hydroxychloroquine group, with 6 mice in each group, and 6 Balb/C mice were set as normal control group. TCM group was gavaged with 2.3 g/kg of Shaoteng Decoction, hydroxychloroquine group was gavaged with 60 mg/kg of hydroxychloroquine, and model group and normal control group were gavaged with equal volume of deionized water once a day for 4 consecutive weeks. The daily water intake of mice during the administration period was recorded, the pathological changes of submandibular gland tissue were observed by HE staining, and the levels of serum inflammatory factors IL-17 and TNF-α were determined by ELISA method.Results:39 main active components of Shaoteng Decoction, 1 062 targets of Sjogren's syndrome, and 64 targets of drug and disease intersection were obtained, including TNF, IL6, NCOA1, AKT1, TP53, etc. The treatment targets of Sjogren's syndrome mainly affected biological processes such as response to bacterium and cellular response to lipid, and regulated TNF-α pathway and IL-17 signaling pathway. The experimental results showed that the levels of TNF-α and IL-17 in the TCM group were lower than those in the model group ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Shaoteng Decoction can regulate IL-17 and TNF-α signaling pathways, inhibit inflammation, delay submandibular gland disruption, and alleviate the symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome.

Construction of a risk prediction model of lung involvement based on chest CT and clinical features in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome / 实用医学杂志

Objective To construct a risk prediction model of pulmonary involvement based on chest CT and clinical feature in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome(pSS),and to explore the risk prediction value of the model.Methods A total of 360 pSS patients who had been treated at Handan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from October 2020 to August 2023 were retrospectively selected as study objects,and were then divided into a modeling group(252 patients)and a verification group(108 patients)according to a ratio of 7∶3.The patients in the modeling group were divided into a control group(201 patients)and an involvement group(51 patients)based on presence or absence of lung involvement.The data on clinical characteristics and features of chest high-resolution CT(HRCT)in the modeling group was collected.Univariate analysis was performed among the groups to determine the relevant factors affecting lung involvement in pSS patients.Binary logistic regression analysis was performed on related factors to screen independent risk factors.A prediction model was established based on the independent risk factors.A verification and value analysis of the column-line prediction model were completed through data collection of the verification group.Results Age,disease course,cough,Raynaud's phenomenon,C-reactive protein(CRP),anti-SSA antibody,and HRCT were the relevant factors affecting lung involvement in pSS patients(all P＜0.05).Further binary logistic regression analysis showed that old age,prolonged disease course,cough and abnormal HRCT imaging were independent risk factors for lung involvement in SS patients(all P＜0.05).A nomogram risk prediction model was constructed based on independent factors.The model verification results indicated that the calibration chart showed better performance in the prediction model.The AUC of the area under the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve was 0.993 the modeling group and 0.995 in the validation group.Conclusions The clinical characteristics and the results of chest CT are closely related with lung involvement in patients with pSS.Old age,prolonged disease course,cough,and abnormal HRCT imaging are independent risk factors affecting lung involvement in patients with pSS.The prediction model established on this basis has a higher predictive value for the occurrence of lung involvement in patients receiving after-loading radiotherapy.

Effects of vorinostat on immune function in rats with Sjögren syndrome / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of vorinostat （SAHA） on immune function in rats with Sjögren syndrome （SS） by regulating interleukin-6（IL-6）/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 （STAT3）. METHODS SS model was constructed by complete/incomplete Freund’s adjuvant immune induction， and the rats with successful modeling were divided into model group， SAHA low-dose， medium-dose and high-dose groups （25， 50， 100 mg/kg）， and high-dose SAHA+IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway activator group （100 mg/kg SAHA+0.05 mg/kg recombinant IL-6 protein）， with 10 rats in each group. Another 10 healthy rats were collected as the control group. Rats in each group were intraperitoneally injected with the corresponding drug/ normal saline， once a day， for consecutive 2 weeks. The water intake （1 d） and saliva flow （10 min） of rats in each group were measured， and the spleen index and submandibular gland index were measured； pathological changes in submandibular gland tissue were observed. The serum levels of interferon-γ （IFN-γ）， IL-17 and IL-10 were detected， and the differentiation of T lymphocyte subgroups in peripheral blood was also detected； the expressions of IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway-related proteins in submandibular gland were detected. RESULTS Compared with the control group， obvious focal infiltration of lymphocytes was observed in the submandibular gland tissue of rats in the model group， and the number of acinar cells was decreased significantly； the water intake， spleen index， pathological score of submandibular gland， serum levels of IFN-γ and IL-17， and the ratios of helper T cell 1 （Th1） and Th17 as well as the protein expression of IL-6 and the protein phosphorylation of STAT3 in submandibular gland were increased obviously （P＜0.05）； the saliva flow， submandibular gland index， serum level of IL-10 and regulatory T cell （Treg） ratio were obviously decreased （P＜0.05）. Compared with the model group， the damage to the submandibular gland in SAHA groups was relieved， the quantitative indexes were obviously improved in dose-dependent manner （P＜0.05）； recombinant IL-6 protein could reverse the improvement effect of SAHA on above indexes of rats （P＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS SAHA can relieve the injury of submandibular gland and regulate its immune function in SS rats， which may be related to inhibiting the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Methodological Evaluation of Advantages of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment of Sjögren's Syndrome / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Screening and evaluating the diseases responding specifically to traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） will help to highlight the advantages of TCM treatment， and the evaluation method should be standardized with consideration to the unique characteristics of the diseases. The incidence of Sjögren's Syndrome （SS） is increasing year by year， while the pathogenesis of this disease remains unclear. Modern therapies for this disease include biological agents and immunosuppressants， which generally have unsatisfactory efficacy. The TCM treatment of SS focuses on the harmony of the physical and mental health. The Rheumatology Branch of the China Association of Chinese Medicine organizes experts in TCM， Western medicine， and evidence-based medicine to form working groups. Delphi method and bibliometric method were used for analysis， and SS was selected as a disease responding specifically to TCM. Furthermore， the evaluation system was established for this disease， and the consensus regarding this disease was reached after seminar discussion. This paper summarized the whole process of the evaluation of the advantages of TCM treatment of SS. First， because TCM atomization is widely used in clinical practice and enriches TCM administration methods， this therapy is included after other non-drug therapies were taken as characteristic therapies. Second， the evaluation indicators of therapeutic effect should be determined with consideration to international acceptance and the current research status. Third， the expression method should be accurate， standardized， and objective， highlight the natural advantages of TCM， and avoid arbitrary extension. This paper provides a reference for clinicians to explore other diseases responding specifically to TCM.

20% Autologous serum vs. 0.05% cyclosporine and preservative-free artificial tears in the treatment of Sjögren related dry eye / Soro autólogo a 20% versus ciclosporina a 0,05 e lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes no tratamento da síndrome do olho seco relacionada à Sjögren

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the 3-month results of treatment with 20% autologous serum or combination treatment with preservative-free artificial tears and 0.05% cyclosporine in patients with dry eye disease due to primary Sjögren's syndrome. Methods: A total of 130 eyes of 65 patients with newly diagnosed dry eye disease due to primary Sjögren's syndrome were included in the study. The patients were divided into two treatment groups: 66 eyes of 33 patients were assigned to the autologous serum treatment group, and 64 eyes of 32 patients were assigned to the combination treatment group. Schirmer test, tear break-up time and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores were recorded at pretreatment and at 3 months of treatment. Results: At 3 months of treatment, the mean Schirmer value and the mean tear break-up time were significantly higher in the combination treatment group (p<0.0001 and p=0.034, respectively). The OSDI score at 3 months was significantly lower in the autologous serum Group (p=0.004). When the two groups were evaluated separately, the improvements in Schirmer, tear break-up time test, and OSDI scores from before to after treatment were statistically significant: p<0.0001, p<0.001, and p<0.0001, respectively, for the authologus serum Group, and p<0.0001, p<0.001, and p<0.0001, respectively, for the combination treatment group. Conclusions: In short-term treatment of dry eye disease due to primary Sjögren's syndrome, treatment with autologous serum was significantly superior to -combination treatment with preservative-free artificial tears and 0.05% cyclosporine in terms of improvement in OSDI scores. Improvements in Schirmer test and tear break-up time scores were significantly superior in the group treated with preservative-free artificial tears and 0.05% cyclosporine.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar os resultados de 3 meses de soro autólogo a 20% com um tratamento combinado, ou seja, lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina a 0,05% em pacientes com síndrome do olho seco devida à síndrome de Sjögren primária. Métodos: Foram incluídos no estudo 130 olhos de 65 pacientes recentemente diagnosticados com síndrome do olho seco devida à síndrome de Sjögren primária. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos de tratamento, 66 olhos de 33 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo de tratamento com soro autólogo e 64 olhos de 32 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo de tratamento combinado com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina. Os resultados do teste de Schirmer e do tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal e os índices de doença da superfície ocular (OSDI) foram registrados antes e depois de três meses de tratamento. Resultados: Três meses após o tratamento, o valor médio do teste de Schirmer foi mais alto com significância estatística no grupo do tratamento combinado com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina (p<0,0001) e o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal também foi significativamente maior nesse grupo (p=0,034). Também aos três meses, a doença da superfície ocular foi menor com significância estatística no grupo de tratamento com soro autólogo (p=0,004). Quando os dois grupos foram avaliados separadamente, a melhora no teste de Schirmer, o tempo de ruptura e a doença da superfície ocular antes e depois do tratamento tiveram diferenças estatisticamente significativas tanto no grupo de soro autólogo (p<0,0001, p<0,001 e p<0,0001, respectivamente) quanto no grupo de tratamento combinado (p<0,0001, p<0,001 e p<0,0001, respectivamente). Conclusões: No tratamento de curto prazo da síndrome do olho seco devida à síndrome de Sjögren primária, o tratamento com soro autólogo foi significativamente superior ao tratamento com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes combinados com ciclosporina, em termos de melhora no doença da superfície ocular. As melhoras no teste de Schirmer e no tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal foram significativamente maiores no grupo de tratamento combinado com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina.

Autologous serum eye drops diluted with 0.5% methylcellulose and 0.9% saline solution: a clinical comparative study / Colírio de soro autólogo diluído com metilcelulose 0,5% e solução salina 0,9%: um estudo clínico comparativo

ABSTRACT Purpose: This clinical study compared autologous serum eye drops diluted with 0.5% methylcellulose and 0.9% saline solution. The subjective criteria for symptom improvement and the objective clinical criteria for response to therapy were evaluated. Methods: This longitudinal prospective study enrolled 23 patients (42 eyes) with persistent epithelial defects or severe dry eye disease refractory to conventional therapy who had been using autologous serum 20% prepared with methylcellulose for > 6 months and started on autologous serum diluted in 0.9% saline solution. The control and intervention groups consisted of the same patients under alternate treatments. The subjective criteria for symptom relief were evaluated using the Salisbury Eye Evaluation Questionnaire. The objective clinical criteria were evaluated through a slit-lamp examination of the ocular surface, tear breakup time, corneal fluorescein staining, Schirmer's test, rose Bengal test, and tear meniscus height. These criteria were evaluated before the diluent was changed and after 30, 90, and 180 days. Results: In total, 42 eyes were analyzed before and after 6 months using autologous serum diluted with 0.9% saline. No significant differences were found in the subjective criteria, tear breakup time, tear meniscus, corneal fluorescein staining, or rose Bengal test. Schirmer's test scores significantly worsened at 30 and 90 days (p=0.008). No complications or adverse effects were observed. Conclusions: This study reinforces the use of autologous serum 20% as a successful treatment for severe dry eye disease resistant to conventional therapy. Autologous serum in 0.9% saline was not inferior to the methylcellulose formulation and is much more cost-effective.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo comparou o colírio de soro au tólogo manipulado com metilcelulose a 0,5% com solução salina 0,9%. Critérios subjetivos de melhora dos sintomas e critérios clínicos objetivos para resposta à terapia foram avaliados. Métodos: Este estudo prospectivo longitudinal envolveu 23 pacientes (42 olhos) com defeitos epiteliais persistentes ou doença de olho seco grave refratária à terapia convencional que usavam colírio de soro autólogo 20% preparado com metilcelulose por mais de 6 meses e iniciaram soro autólogo diluído em solução salina 0,9%. Os grupos controle e intervenção consistiam dos mesmos pacientes sob tratamentos alternados. Os critérios subjetivos para o alívio dos sintomas foram avaliados usando o Salisbury Eye Evaluation Questionnaire. Os critérios objetivos foram avaliados por meio de exame em lâmpada de fenda incluindo: tempo de ruptura da lágrima, coloração da córnea com fluoresceína, teste de Schirmer, coloração com rosa bengala e altura do menisco lacrimal. Esses critérios foram avaliados antes da troca do diluente e após 30, 90 e 180 dias. Resultados: Um total de 42 olhos foram analisados antes e após 6 meses usando soro autólogo diluído com solução salina 0,9%. Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada nos critérios subjetivos, tempo de ruptura da lágrima, menisco lacrimal, coloração com fluoresceína ou rosa bengala. Os resultados dos testes de Schirmer pioraram significativamente em 30 e 90 dias (p=0,008). Não foram observadas complicações ou efeitos adversos. Conclusões: Este estudo reforça o uso do colírio de soro autólogo 20% como um tratamento de sucesso para a doença do olho seco grave resistente à terapia convencional. O soro autólogo diluído em solução salina a 0,9% não foi inferior à formulação de metilcelulose.

Targeted saliva metabolomics in Sjogren's syndrome

Abstract Objective: Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune exocrinopathy, and although, the role of metabolism in the autoimmune responses has been discussed in diseases such as lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and scleroderma. There is a lack of information regarding the metabolic implications of SS. Considering that the disease affects primarily salivary glands; the aim of this study is to evaluate the metabolic changes in the salivary glands' microenvironment using a targeted metabolomics approach. Methods: The saliva from 10 patients diagnosed with SS by the American-European consensus and 10 healthy volunteers was analyzed in an Ultra-high Performance Liquid Chromatograph Coupled Mass Spectrometry (UPLCMS). Results: The results showed an increased concentration in SS of metabolites involved in oxidative stress such as lactate, alanine and malate, and amino acids involved in the growth and proliferation of T-cells, such as arginine, leucine valine and isoleucine. Conclusions: These results revealed that is possible to differentiate the metabolic profile of SS and healthy individuals using a small amount of saliva, which in its turn may reflect the cellular changes observed in the microenvironments of damaged salivary glands from these patients.

Sjögren: unique surname, two men, four syndromes and one disease / Sjögren: sobrenome único, dois homens, quatro síndromes e uma doença

Abstract Henrik and Torsten Sjögren (/'ogrƏn/ or SHOH-grƏn) were two Swedish physicians living in the same period, but completely unrelated, except for their notable contributions to Medicine. The first one described keratoconjunctivitis sicca, afterward called Sjögren's syndrome, and a fishing net aspect retinal pigmentation affecting visual acuity, nowadays known as Sjögren reticular dystrophy. The last one contributed to the understanding of Spielmeyer-Sjögren disease, Marinesco-Sjögren, and Sjögren-Larsson syndromes, all related to genetic disorders and neurological symptoms. In this paper, we aim to describe each disorder, in order to avoid any misunderstanding in diagnosis and for historical record.

Resumo Henrik e Torsten Sjögren (/'ogrƏn/ or SHOH-grƏn) foram dois médicos suecos que viveram na mesma época, mas não tinham nenhuma relação entre si, exceto por suas notáveis contribuições à medicina. O primeiro descreveu a ceratoconjuntivite sicca, posteriormente chamada de síndrome de Sjögren, e uma pigmentação da retina com aspecto de rede de pesca que afeta a acuidade visual, hoje conhecida como distrofia reticular de Sjögren. O último contribuiu para a compreensão da doença de Spielmeyer-Sjögren, das síndromes de Marinesco-Sjögren e Sjögren-Larsson, todas relacionadas a distúrbios genéticos e sintomas neurológicos. Neste artigo, pretendemos descrever cada desordem, a fim de evitar qualquer mal-entendido no diagnóstico e para registro histórico.

Sjogren's syndrome: a neurological perspective / Síndrome de Sjogren: uma perspectiva neurológica

Abstract Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of salivary and lacrimal glands, resulting in sicca symptoms. Additionally, SS presents with neurological manifestations that significantly impact the nervous system. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the neurological aspects of SSj, covering both the peripheral and central nervous system involvement, while emphasizing diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Resumo A síndrome de Sjogren (SS) é uma doença autoimune complexa caracterizada pela infiltração linfocítica das glândulas salivares e lacrimais, resultando em sintomas sicca. Além disso, a SS apresenta manifestações neurológicas que afetam significativamente o sistema nervoso. Esta revisão tem como objetivo fornecer uma visão abrangente dos aspectos neurológicos da SSj, abordando tanto o envolvimento do sistema nervoso periférico quanto do central, com ênfase no diagnóstico, tratamento e prognóstico.

Encefalitis autoinmune seronegativa asociada a síndrome de Sjögren primario / Autoimmune seronegative encephalitis associated to primary Sjögren's disease

La encefalitis autoinmune es un trastorno inmunomediado que compromete distintos territorios del parénquima cerebral, involucrando frecuentemente la materia gris profunda o la corteza, con o sin compromiso de la materia blanca, meninges o médula espinal. Se asocia frecuentemente con enfermedades autoinmunes o paraneoplásicas, y constituye un reto diagnóstico. Reportamos el caso de una mujer de 55 años con antecedente de síndrome de Sjögren que consultó a Emergencias por cefalea y confusión. El líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) presentaba leucocitosis con neutrofilia. En la resonancia magnética nuclear (RMN) cerebral se evidenciaron múltiples imágenes de comportamiento restrictivo, de señal hiperintensa en T2 y FLAIR, a predominio córtico-subcortical a nivel occipital bilateral, hemisferio cerebeloso derecho y parietal derecho. Se descartaron infecciones y neoplasias. El panel de anticuerpos para encefalitis autoinmune aquaporina-4 y anti-MOG en LCR fue negativo. Recibió metilprednisolona endovenosa con mejoría progresiva de los síntomas.

Autoimmune encephalitis is an immune-mediated disorder that affects different areas of the brain parenchyma, often involving deep gray matter or the cortex, with or without involvement of white matter, meninges, or spinal cord. It is frequently associated with autoimmune or paraneoplastic diseases and is a diagnostic challenge. We report the case of a 55-year-old woman with history of Sjögren's syndrome who presented to the emergency department with headache and episodes of confusion. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed leukocytosis with neutrophilia. Brain MRI revealed multiple restricted diffusion lesions with hyperintense signal on T2 and FLAIR sequences, predominantly in the bilateral occipital region, right cerebellar hemisphere, and right parietal region. Infections and neoplasms were ruled out. The panel of antibodies for autoimmune encephalitis, including Aquaporin-4 and anti-MOG in CSF, was negative. She received intravenous methylprednisolone, leading to symptom improvement.

Validación del ClinESSDAI para Argentina / Validation of ClinESSDAI for Argentina

Introducción: recientemente, en Europa y en idioma inglés, se ha desarrollado el Clinical EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ClinESSDAI) para evaluar la actividad en pacientes con síndrome de Sjögren primario (SSp). Objetivos: validar el ClinESSDAI en pacientes con SSp en Argentina. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal. Se utilizó la versión en castellano del EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) validada en Argentina. Para evaluar la validez del constructo, se usó la escala visual análoga (EVA) desarrollada por un reumatólogo experto por dominio del ClinESSDAI y de la EVA global para el puntaje total del ClinESSDAI, mientras que otro profesional en la materia realizó el ESSDAI y ClinESSDAI. Para analizar la reproducibilidad, se estudió a un subgrupo de pacientes, sin mediar cambios en el tratamiento ni en la condición clínica, 10 días después de la evaluación basal. Todos los médicos examinaron a los pacientes desconociendo la evaluación de los demás colegas. Resultados: se incluyeron 47 pacientes con SSp. La correlación entre la EVA global y el ClinESSDAI fue muy buena (Rho 0,7), así como la correlación de la EVA y el ClinESSDAI de cada dominio. El coeficiente de correlación intraclase (CCI) entre el ESSDAI y el ClinESSDAI fue de 0,98. La reproducibilidad fue de 0,93. Conclusiones: el ClinESSDAI es una herramienta válida y reproducible en nuestra población, equiparable al ESSDAI.

Introduction: the Clinical EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ClinESSDAI) has recently been developed in Europe and in the English language to evaluate activity in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Objectives: validate the ClinESSDAI in patients pSS in Argentina. Materials and methods: a cross-sectional study. The Spanish version of the ESSDAI, validated in Argentina, was used. To evaluate construct validity, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used, performed by an expert rheumatologist per ClinESSDAI domain, and the global VAS was used for the total score of the ClinESSDAI, while another professional performed the ESSDAI and ClinESSDAI. To evaluate reproducibility, a subgroup of patients was evaluated without changes in treatment or clinical condition 10 days after the baseline evaluation. All physicians were blind to each other's evaluation. Results: 47 patients with pSS were included. The correlation between global VAS and ClinESSDAI was very good (Rho 0.7), as well as the correlation of the VAS and ClinESSDAI of each domain. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between ESSDAI and ClinESSDAI was 0.98. The reproducibility was 0.93. Conclusions: the ClinESSDAI is a valid and reproducible tool in our population, comparable to the ESSDAI.

An acquired Bartter syndrome with secondary Sjögren syndrome

Renal tubular involvement in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) often described with renal tubular acidosis, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, or rarely with Fanconi syndrome. SS presenting with clinical features of Bartter's syndrome or Gitelman's syndrome is rare. We report a case of a female patient who presented an acquired Bartter syndrome with a secondary SS. Our case highlights the fact that hypokalemia with metabolic alkalosis in an adult patient should prompt clinicians to look for common and uncommon conditions. While assessing for abnormal conditions, acquired Bartter syndrome should be considered if a patient has an underlying autoimmune, endocrine, or connective tissue disease.

Síndrome de Sjögren y endodoncia, consideraciones a propósito de un caso / Sjögren's syndrome and endodontics, clinical case and considerations

El síndrome de Sjögren (SS) es una enfermedad autoinmune que afecta a las glándulas salivales y lagrimales. Se expone el caso clínico de una paciente de 67 años de género femenino que consulta por dolor en múltiples dientes; relata sensación de boca seca (xerostomía) y sequedad ocular (xeroftalmia). Al examen intraoral, se observan múltiples caries en superficies atípicas, mucosas secas, saliva espumosa y notoria depapilación lingual. Se sospecha de SS, derivando a medicina interna y confirmándose el diagnóstico. En paralelo, se inicia el tratamiento odontológico, realizando adaptaciones en los procedimientos para aliviar la sintomatología del SS, especialmente durante tratamientos endodónticos.

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the salivary and lacrimal glands. The clinical case of a 67-year-old female patient who consulted for pain in multiple teeth is exposed. Additionally, she reports a sensation of dry mouth (xerostomia) and dry eyes (xerophthalmia). During the intraoral examination, the following findings are noticed: multiple cavities on atypical surfaces, dry mucous membranes, foamy saliva, and atrophic glossitis. SS is suspected, referring to internal medicine and confirming the diagnosis. In parallel, dental treatment is initiated, making adaptations in the procedures to alleviate the symptoms of SS, especially during endodontic treatments.

Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Involvement in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome: Case Report and Literature Review

Sjögren's syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by dry eyes and mouth due to the involvement of exocrine glands. However, it can manifest with GI symptoms that cover a broad spectrum from esophageal and intestinal dysmotility, achalasia, hypochlorhydria, and chronic atrophic gastritis to pancreatic enzyme deficiency, biliary dysfunction, and liver cirrhosis, which varies in its clinical manifestations and is often associated with erroneous approaches. This article reviews the GI manifestations of Sjögren's syndrome. It presents the case of a woman in her eighth decade of life with this syndrome. She showed asymptomatic hepatobiliary disease, documented abnormalities in liver profile tests, and a subsequent diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis, for which she received initial treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid. During her condition, the patient has had three episodes of cholangitis, requiring endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with no findings of stones, with scant biliary sludge and discharge of purulent bile precipitated by her underlying liver disease. The association between Sjögren's syndrome and primary sclerosing cholangitis is rare and calls for special consideration.

El síndrome de Sjögren es una enfermedad autoinmune sistémica que se caracteriza por la sequedad ocular y bucal debido a la afección de glándulas exocrinas; sin embargo, puede manifestarse con síntomas gastrointestinales que abarcan un espectro amplio desde la dismotilidad esofágica e intestinal, acalasia, hipoclorhidria y gastritis crónica atrófica hasta enzimodeficiencia pancreática, disfunción biliar y cirrosis hepática, que tiene variación en sus manifestaciones clínicas y se asocia con abordajes erróneos en muchas ocasiones. En este artículo se hace una revisión acerca de las manifestaciones gastrointestinales de síndrome de Sjögren y se presenta el caso de una mujer en la octava década de la vida con este síndrome, que cursa con enfermedad hepatobiliar asintomática, documentación de alteración en pruebas de perfil hepático y diagnóstico ulterior de colangitis esclerosante primaria, por lo que recibió un tratamiento inicial con ácido ursodesoxicólico. Durante el curso de su enfermedad ha presentado 3 episodios de colangitis, con requerimiento de colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica sin hallazgos de cálculos, con escaso barro biliar y salida de bilis purulenta, precipitada por su enfermedad hepática de base. La asociación entre el síndrome de Sjögren y la colangitis esclerosante primaria es infrecuente y justifica una consideración especial.

Caracterización del perfil lipídico en pacientes con síndrome de Sjögren primario / Characterization of the lipid profile in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome

RESUMEN Introducción: La dislipidemia es la alteración metabólica más prevalente en el síndrome de Sjögren primario (SSP), se sugiere una asociación entre niveles bajos de colesterol de alta densidad (HDL) y la actividad de la enfermedad. Objetivos: El propósito de este estudio es describir las características del perfil lipídico y explorar la correlación entre sus componentes y la actividad del SSP. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte trasversal, se revisaron las historias clí nicas de pacientes mayores de 18 años que asistieron al Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael, con criterios clasificatorios para SSP durante el periodo de enero del 2015 a diciembre del 2019. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el software RStudio versión 4.0.2. Se efectuó un análisis descriptivo de las variables clínico-demográficas y serológicas para evaluar la correlación entre ellas. Resultados: Se revisaron en total 250 historias clínicas, de las cuales, 35 cumplían con los criterios de inclusión. La edad promedio fue de 53,4 años; el 88,3% de la población fueron mujeres. La mediana del tiempo de enfermedad fue de 42 meses. Las medias de colesterol total, HDL, colesterol de baja densidad (LDL) y triglicéridos fueron de 191 mg/dL, 42,6 mg/dL, 118,9 mg/dL y 157 mg/dL, respectivamente. Se encontró un coeficiente de correlación de Pearson entre el índice de actividad ESSDAI y el colesterol HDL de -0,43 (IC 95% -0,67-0,12), valor p = 0,008. Se realizó un modelo lineal entre el índice de actividad ESSDAI total y el colesterol HDL, y como resultado se halló un coeficiente estimado de -0,17. La curva ROC, con un punto de segregación de colesterol HDL de 43,5 mg/dL, mostró un área bajo la curva (AUC) de 0,603 (IC 95% 0,40-0,80). Al excluir los pacientes con índice de masa corporal (IMC) alto, el AUC mejoró, con un punto de segregación de 38 mg/dL. Conclusiones: Los pacientes con niveles bajos de colesterol HDL mostraron mayores índices de actividad de la enfermedad, con un punto de corte menor a 43 mg/dL, siendo más marcado en pacientes con IMC normal.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dyslipidaemia is the most prevalent metabolic disorder in primary Sjögren s syndrome (PSS) and an association between low HDL cholesterol levels and disease activity has been suggested. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to describe the characteristics of the lipid profile in patients with PSS and explore the correlation between the components of the lipid profile and the activity of the disease. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study. We reviewed the medical records of patients over 18 years of age with criteria for PSS who attended the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael during the period between January 2015 to December 2019. We used R-studio software version 4.0.2 for statistical analysis. A descriptive analysis of the clinical-demographic and serological variables was carried out to evaluate the correlation between them. Results: A total of 250 medical records were reviewed, of which 35 met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 53.4 years and 88.3% were women. The median duration of disease was 42 months. The mean values for total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides were 191 mg/dL, 42.6 mg/dL, 118.9 mg/dL and 157 mg/dL respectively. A Pearson correlation coefficient of -.43 (95% CI -.67 to -.12) p-value = .008 was found between the ESSDAI activity index and HDL cholesterol. A linear model was performed between the total ESSDAI activity index and HDL cholesterol, finding an estimated coefficient of -.17. A ROC curve was performed with an HDL cholesterol segregation point of 43.5 mg/dL with an area under the curve of .603 (95% CI .40-.80). By excluding patients with high BMI, the area under the curve improved with a segregation point of 38 mg/dL. Conclusions: Patients with low levels of HDL cholesterol showed higher rates of disease activity, with a cut-off point lower than 43 mg/dL being more marked in patients with normal body mass index.

Sjogren’s syndrome presenting as hypokalemic periodic paralysis, a rare manifestation: A case series

Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic and slowly progressing autoimmune disease characterized by lyphocytic infiltration of exocrine glands resulting in Sicca syndrome (xerostomia and keratocunjuntivitis sicca). The disease can present alone or along with other autoimmune diseases leading to significant organ specific and systemic disease. Middle aged women (Female: Male: 9:1) are primarily affected. Extraglandular (systemic) manifestations are seen in one third of patients with Sjogren’s syndrome. Among the extraglandular manifestations, renal involvement is commonly seen. Renal involvement in the form of tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN) is more common compared to glomerular involvement. Distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is more common manifestation of TIN presenting as mild hypokalemia, metabolic acidosis, and rarely with hypokalemic periodic paralysis. We report three cases of hypokalemic periodic paralysis with metabolic acidosis, two in respiratory paralysis, diagnosed as distal RTA. On further evaluation of distal RTA, the patient diagnosed to have Sjogren’s syndrome and managed accordingly. Our report shows that Sjogren’s syndrome is a rare but important cause of hypokaemic periodic paralysis due to RTA.