Περίληψη:
Sjogren’s syndrome (SS), is a chronic autoimmune disorder, characterized
by lymphocytic infiltration and destruction of the exocrine glands
(mainly the salivary and the lacrimal glands) resulting in dry mouth and
eyes. The symptoms of SS are chronic and sometimes devastating,
compromising the quality of life at a major extent. Although SS is
considered a classical autoimmune disorder, evidence for the use of
immunosuppressive agents, the mainstay of therapy of diseases of
autoimmune origin, is scarce. Cholinergic agents, such as pilocarpine
and cevimeline are the cornerstone of current therapy of SS, while oral
interferon and ciclosporine ocular drops seem to be of some benefit. In
contrast, other immunosuppressive substances, such as methotrexate,
azathioprine or anti-TNF agents, did not alleviate the sicca features
associated with the disease. Corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and
nucleoside analogues are reserved for life threatening severe
extraglandular manifestations of SS.
