FocusOnArthritis.com - Diseases & Conditions - Sjogren's Syndrome

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http://www.focusonarthritis.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=477 & rd=1 What is Sjogren's syndrome?Sjogren's syndrome classically features a combination of dry eyes, dry mouth, and another disease of the connective tissues, most commonly rheumatoid arthritis.

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease, characterized by the abnormal production of extra antibodies in the blood that are directed against various tissues of the body. This particular autoimmune illness is caused by inflammation in the glands of the body. Inflammation of the glands that produce tears (lacrimal glands) lead to decreased water production for tears and eye dryness. Inflammation of the glands that produce the saliva in the mouth (salivary glands, including the parotid glands) leads to mouth dryness. >>>> There is a lot more information at this link. Joanne C.