Oral Health Case Reports

Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized by xerostomia, xerophthalmia and dysfunction of other exocrine glands of the body. This can often be associated with other connective tissue disorders such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic lupus erythematosus that also show properties of autoimmunity and chronicity. This case report discusses the case of a 49 year old lady, already diagnosed with autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and seronegative rheumatoid arthritis who presented with a right side submandibular swelling of three weeks duration and an additional complaint of dry mouth. Sialometry, serological investigations and Labial gland biopsy were conclusive of Sjögren’s syndrome. Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. This case report brings to light the clinical coexistence of additional autoimmune diseases with Sjögren’s syndrome, with emphasis on the association of SLE and Secondary Sjögren’s syndrome and reviews in detail the clinical presentations and management of individuals affected with this condition.