LATE-ONSET SJÖGREN’S SYNDROM

Abstract

Sjögren’s syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by exocrine glands damage, resulting in the development of dry eyes and dry mouth, as well as extraglandular manifestation. It usually starts between the ages of 30 and 50. Late-onset Sjögren’s syndrome should be considered as a disease that appears after age 65, but the literature also reports of the age 50, 60, or even 70. The prevalence of late-onset Sjögren’s syndrome is estimated about 20%. The course of late-onset Sjögren’s syndrome may differ when compared with patients with a younger onset. Lack of sicca symptoms and marker antibodies may be associated with a delay in Sjögren’s syndrome diagnosis. Particularly in the elderly, the occurrence of sicca symptoms may be considered as age-related and medication-related.