Dr. Mohamad Ali Rida
Rheumatology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have had dermatomyositis for three years and was asked to take tablet Cellcept. Before being diagnosed with dermatomyositis, I developed dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction. After taking the medicines, I had dryness in my mouth. I tested negative for anti-SSA Ro and anti-La/SSB antibodies for Sjögren's syndrome a few years ago. Recently I developed Demodex rosacea. My rheumatologist suggested I might have secondary Sjögren's syndrome. Is secondary Sjögren's syndrome serious? I read that Sjögren's syndrome can cause dryness of the eyes and ears, kidney problems, and lymphoma. Can secondary Sjögren's syndrome cause lymphoma and other serious issues? Is primary Sjogren's syndrome the same as secondary Sjogren's syndrome?
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Do not worry, as you are receiving the best treatment for dermatomyositis. Secondary Sjogren's syndrome is a very common autoimmune disease. Being on tablet Cellcept (Mycophenolate mofetil 500 mg) is more than enough to prevent complications of Sjogren's syndrome. You must follow-up regularly with your doctor for any swollen lymph nodes.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor for the reply,
Is it better to have secondary Sjögren’s syndrome than primary? Is there less risk of organ damage or lymphoma in primary Sjogren's syndrome?
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Primary Sjogren's syndrome is less severe than secondary. However, there are no studies available to compare both. Therefore, I am answering your query based on my clinical observation. The risk of lymphoma is present in all rheumatic diseases, including dermatomyositis. Therefore I do not think you should be worried about Sjogren's syndrome. You just need a regular check-up and careful examination.
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Rheumatology
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