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Causes
By Mayo Clinic staffSjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder. This means that your immune system mistakenly attacks your body's own cells and tissues.
Scientists aren't certain why some people develop Sjogren's syndrome and others don't. Certain genes put people at higher risk for the disorder, but it appears that a triggering mechanism — such as infection with a particular virus or bacteria — is also necessary.
In Sjogren's syndrome, your immune system first targets the moisture-secreting glands of your eyes and mouth. But it can also damage other parts of your body, such as your:
- Joints
- Thyroid
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Lungs
- Skin
- Nerves
- Questions and answers about Sjogren's syndrome. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Sjogrens_Syndrome/sjogrens_syndrome_qa.pdf. Accessed May 15, 2009.
- Kruszka P, et al. Diagnosis and management of Sjogren syndrome. American Family Physician. 2009;79:465.
- Naguwa S, et al. Sjogren's syndrome. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/137554062-3/841563606/1492/1035.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2805-5..50294-9_13050. Accessed May 15, 2009.
- Sjogren's syndrome. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/diseases_and_conditions/sjogrens.asp. Accessed May 15, 2009.
- Fox R, et al. Treatment of Sjogren's syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed May 20, 2009.
- Chang-Miller A (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 1, 2009.
