The diagnosis of Sjögren’s disease requires evidence of an autoimmune condition that is adversely affecting the function of the glands that produce tears and saliva. A careful evaluation is needed to exclude other potential causes of ocular and oral dryness, which are the most common symptoms.
Assessments by a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist, and a dentist or oral medicine specialist are usually needed to identify key elements of the disease. These may include:
- inadequate tear film
- decreased saliva production
- salivary gland inflammation
- an underlying systemic autoimmune process
Since the 1960’s, there has been an evolution in the definition of the signs and symptoms that define the condition we call “Sjögren’s disease.” There is no single test that establishes the presence of this disease. Currently, the diagnosis is based on the 2016 ACR and EULAR criteria, requiring either the presence of anti-SSA (Ro) antibodies or a positive biopsy of salivary glands from the lip showing a characteristic pattern of inflammation.
Your doctors may recommend the following tests to determine if you have Sjögren’s disease:
- Blood and Urine Tests
- Schirmer’s Test
- Ocular Surface Staining
- Labial Gland (Lip) Biopsy
- Sialometry
- Salivary Gland Function Scans (Parotid Scintigraphy)
- Ultrasonography of the Major Salivary Glands
Your doctors may also recommend further tests to determine if you have neurologic complications of Sjögren’s disease:
- Nerve Conduction and Electromyography
- Cutaneous Nerve/Skin Biopsy
- Lumbar Puncture
- MRI of the Brain and Spinal Cord
Although less common, some patients with Sjögren’s disease may develop systemic complications, including neurological involvement.
