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Sjögren’s disease, previously referred to as Sjögren’s syndrome, is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands. It causes symptoms like dry eyes and dry mouth. Sjögren’s can also affect other parts of the body, including the joints, skin, lungs, kidneys, and nervous system. While there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Through Sjögren’s disease services, UPMC experts treat this disease, which is nearly as common as rheumatoid arthritis.
We treat and monitor people with Sjögren’s disease. Sjögren’s affects the secreting glands like your tear- and saliva-producing glands. But as a systemic disease, it can affect nearly any organ system.
Sjögren’s can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary Sjögren’s is the absence of another underlying rheumatic disorder. Secondary Sjögren’s is associated with the presence of another autoimmune disease like systemic lupus erythematosus.
There's no one-size-fits-all treatment for Sjögren’s, as it affects each person differently.
Currently, there are no FDA-approved disease-modifying treatments specifically for Sjögren’s. However, your provider will develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage your symptoms and reduce the impact of Sjögren’s on your daily life and overall wellbeing.
The specific treatments will depend on which parts of your body are affected. Your options may include therapies to relieve symptoms like dry eyes or dry mouth. Or they may prevent or manage more serious complications that could affect other organs, such as the lungs or kidneys. We aim to reduce side effects and improve your health in the short and long term.
Most people with Sjogren’s have a normal life expectancy. Although it's a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause significant symptoms, the majority of cases can be effectively managed with the right treatment.
But in some instances, more serious complications may arise. These include:
Regular checkups and early treatment are key to preventing these complications and improving the long-term outlook for most people.
The clinical trial landscape for Sjögren’s is promising. Many treatments aiming to better target the immune system and improve outcomes are in phase II and III trials, offering hope for more effective options beyond symptom management.
UPMC Rheumatology is home to the first dedicated Sjögren’s Disease Center in the greater Pittsburgh area, serving Southwest Pa.
At UPMC, you can also expect seamless care across multiple disciplines.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2024-12-03.
