Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid, Sjögren’s Syndrome, and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis as a Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome: A case report

Abstract

Purpose: To present a rare and novel association of Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid, Sjögren’s Syndrome, and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis as a Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome. Case report: A 43-year-old Colombian female, presented with corneal ulcers, associated with trichiasis. At the ophthalmological examination forniceal shortening OU and symblepharon OD was found. Conjunctival biopsy was performed, evidencing linear deposition of IgG and IgA antibodies along the basement membrane of the conjunctiva, confirming Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid diagnosis. After 12 years, the patient presented constitutional symptoms, xerostomia, and worsening of xerophthalmia. Laboratory tests showed positive Anti-TG, Anti-TPO, Anti-Ro, and Anti-La antibodies, and salivary gland biopsy was consistent with Sjögren’s Syndrome. Due to these findings, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Sjögren’s Syndrome were diagnosed, defining a Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome. Conclusion: A novel association of Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome is presented in this case. Ophthalmologists and other specialists involved in the evaluation and treatment of patients with autoimmune diseases, should be aware of this clinical presentation. A multidisciplinary approach in this condition is important for optimum treatment instauration and follow-up, in order to prevent complications.