Description

Sjögren syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily targets the moisture-producing glands, including those that produce tears and saliva. Over time, this condition can progress beyond the glands and affect multiple organ systems—including the joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, nerves, and digestive tract.

The disease is characterized by an immune response involving lymphocyte infiltration, which leads to inflammation and destruction of glandular tissue, resulting in dryness and systemic symptoms.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Sjögren Syndrome:

  • Dry eyes (burning, itching, gritty sensation)
  • Dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, or speaking
  • Fatigue and chronic exhaustion
  • Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
  • Muscle aches and weakness
  • Dry skin and recurrent rashes
  • Swollen salivary glands
  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities (neuropathy)
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Digestive issues, bloating, or irritable bowel symptoms
  • Recurrent respiratory infections (bronchitis, pneumonia)

This Blood Panel Includes the Following Biomarkers:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Purpose: Evaluates red and white blood cells and platelets.
  • Why it matters: Detects anemia, leukopenia, and other abnormalities common in autoimmune diseases like Sjögren syndrome.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

  • Purpose: Assesses liver and kidney function, blood sugar, and electrolyte levels.
  • Why it matters: Sjögren syndrome can affect internal organs, including the kidneys and liver. CMP helps identify signs of organ involvement or systemic inflammation.

Sjogren's Anti SS-A (Ro) and SS-B (La) Antibodies

  • Purpose: Detects specific autoantibodies that are hallmark markers of Sjögren syndrome.
  • Why it matters: These antibodies are often present early in the disease and are critical for diagnosis. A positive result supports clinical suspicion and helps distinguish Sjögren syndrome from other autoimmune conditions.

Test Preparation:

  • Fasting: Not required
  • Sample Type: Blood (venipuncture)

Who Should Consider This Panel:

  • Individuals with persistent dry eyes or dry mouth
  • Those with joint pain, fatigue, or suspected autoimmune symptoms
  • People experiencing recurrent salivary gland swelling or infections
  • Patients already diagnosed with other autoimmune conditions (e.g., lupus, RA)
  • Women with vaginal dryness, fatigue, or neuropathy symptoms without another known cause

Why This Panel Matters:

Sjögren syndrome is often underdiagnosed due to its overlap with other autoimmune and systemic conditions. This targeted blood panel helps identify the key biomarkers associated with the disease, offering a crucial step toward accurate diagnosis and early treatment intervention.