Secondary Sjögren’s Syndrome in Sero-Positive Rheumatoid Arthritis

Doi: 10.36351/pjo.v41i3.2080

Abstract

We report a case of secondary Sjogren syndrome in a 46-year-old woman with a 4-month history of bilateral symmetrical joint pains, morning stiffness, dry mouth, dry eyes, fatigue, and lethargy. Examination revealed pallor, dry eyes, dry tongue and synovitis in multiple joints. Investigations showed iron deficiency anemia, positive rheumatoid factor, ANA, anti-CCP antibodies, anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La antibodies. The patient was diagnosed with Sero-positive rheumatoid arthritis complicated by secondary Sjögren's syndrome. She was started on Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine, oral Steroids and dietary supplements. At 8-week follow-up, her joint pains improved, steroids had been discontinued, and she was tolerating medications without adverse effects.

Keywords:  Sjögren’s Syndrome, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Anti-CCP antibodies, anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La antibodies, Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine