Sjögren's Syndrome Diagnosis

This information was reviewed and approved by Mehrnaz Maleki Fischbach, MD (4/1/2019).

It is often difficult to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome. In fact, it may take years before a definite diagnosis is made.

A specialist in autoimmune diseases (known as a rheumatologist) is usually required to establish the diagnosis.

The diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome is made based on the careful analysis of many factors. A thorough history and physical examination are essential. Also, there are certain laboratory studies that can be helpful when considering the diagnosis. It is important to note that a diagnosis cannot be made based on any specific blood test alone.

In 2016, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) jointly endorsed a new set of criteria for the classification of primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS) derived through international consensus. These criteria are based on testing of the saliva, blood and eyes.

ACR/EULAR classification criteria for primary Sjögren's syndrome
Item	Weight/Score
Saliva
Labial salivary gland (salivary glands near the mouth) A focal lymphocytic sialadenitis and focus score of ≥1	3
Unstimulated whole saliva flow rate ≤0.1 ml/minute	1
Blood test
Anti-SSA/SSB (Ro) positive (antibodies to Ro/SSA antigen)	1
Eyes
Ocular staining (measures damage to the surface of the eye) A score ≥5 (or van Bijsterfeld score ≥4) on at least one eye	1
Schirmer’s test (measures tear production) ≤5 mm/5 minutes on at least one eye	1

The diagnosis of primary Sjögren's syndrome applies to any person who meets the inclusion criteria (has some of these symptoms) and who has a score of four or greater when the weights/scores from the five criteria are totaled.

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