Overview
This study focused on evaluating the clinical presentation of dry eye in Sjögren’s disease and creating a thorough algorithm for proper assessment. For context, in Sjögren’s disease there is typically lymphocytic infiltration of the salivary and lacrimal glands. The involvement of these glands leads to progressive decreases in the quantity and quality of saliva and tears which can impair quality of life. Local treatment of dry eyes and dry mouth can prevent complications but does not appear to alter the course of the disease. Early diagnosis and implementation are critical in improving patients’ quality of life and treating complications.
Patients often first present to ophthalmologist with complaints of dry eye, and as a result ophthalmologists are in a unique position to screen patients for possible Sjögren’s disease. However, at the time of the study there were no evidence-based screening tools for ophthalmologists to use to identify patients with a high likelihood of having Sjögren’s disease.
Key Facts
- Status: Completed
- Principal Investigator: Alan N. Baer, MD
- Location: our branch of the study was conducted at various Johns Hopkins Medicine locations in Baltimore, MD
Study Design
The created screening algorithm was comprised of a combination of questionnaire responses, autoantibody tests and standard dry eye exam findings. The results stratified dry eye patients into groups with a high, medium or low likelihood of having Sjögren’s disease.
Impact
This research has provided valuable knowledge about Sjögren’s disease, particularly regarding dry eye and its thorough and accurate assessment in the context of the disease.
Additional Notes
At the time of this study, Sjögren’s disease was known and referred to as Sjögren’s syndrome.
