Sjögren's Syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands. As a result, people with this condition usually have dry eyes and a dry mouth. Sjögren's syndrome may also cause dryness of the skin or vagina and may affect other organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract or nervous system. Patients may suffer from joint pain or fatigue.

Our Approach to Sjögren's Syndrome

UCSF is home to one of the only centers dedicated to treating patients with Sjögren's syndrome, staffed by oral medicine specialists with expertise in this condition. Depending on the patient's needs, the care team may also include rheumatologists and ophthalmologists.

There is no cure for Sjögren's syndrome, but treatments can ease symptoms. Options include medications to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation, as well as artificial tears, saline nasal spray and other products to relieve dry tissues.