A relatively rare traditional Chinese medicine pattern of primary Sjögren syndrome: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: This report presents a unique case of a patient diagnosed with Primary Sjögren’s syndrome and a relatively rare traditional Chinese medicine pattern, known as the combined cold and heat pattern and cold-dampness syndrome. The patient’s condition was successfully managed using Chinese herbal medicine, specifically the modified Da-Chai-Hu decoction and Linggui Zhugan decoction. Patient concerns: A 56-year-old woman had chronic dry eye and mouth for over 10 years. She was initially managed with traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCHM) prescriptions, including the Zengye decoction, but the therapeutic effects were unsatisfactory. As the disease progressed, she was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder due to symptoms of vexation and insomnia. Treatment with alprazolam and venlafaxine failed to alleviate these symptoms. Recently, her general condition gradually worsened, with symptoms including a bitter taste in her mouth, dizziness, hot flashes, chills, poor appetite, chest discomfort, and constipation. Diagnoses: After a series of examinations, including a Schirmer test and labial gland biopsy, she was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome. Interventions: Despite regular treatment with pilocarpine, sodium hyaluronate eye drops, venlafaxine, and alprazolam, the dry mouth symptoms intensified. Consequently, she sought further intervention through the TCHM. Outcomes: After 8 weeks of treatment with the modified Da-Chai-Hu decoction and Linggui Zhugan decoction, she reported a significant improvement in her dryness-related symptoms and sleep quality. Lessons: This case report demonstrates that TCHM can effectively treat Primary Sjögren’s syndrome, and should be considered for broader applications. Furthermore, this underscores the importance of tailoring treatment formulas to patients by identifying their specific syndrome differentiation in a clinical setting.