Search for specific clinical trials that are underway using the keyword search below.
Patient support groups also offer information about clinical trials.
ClinicalTrials.gov Search
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NINDS Disorders is an index of neurological conditions provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This valuable tool offers detailed descriptions, facts on treatment and prognosis, and patient organization contact information for over 500 identified neurological disorders.
Sjögren's Syndrome
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which immune cells attack and destroy the glands that produce tears and saliva. Sjögren's syndrome is also associated with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. The hallmark symptoms of the disorder are dry mouth and dry eyes. In addition, Sjogren's syndrome may cause skin, nose, and vaginal dryness, and may affect other organs of the body including the kidneys, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas, and brain.Sjögren's syndrome affects 1-4 million people in the United States. Most people are more than 40 years old at the time of diagnosis. Women are 9 times more likely to have Sjögren's syndrome than men.
Treatment
There is no known cure for Sjögren's syndrome nor is there a specific treatment to restore gland secretion. Treatment is generally symptomatic and supportive. Moisture replacement therapies may ease the symptoms of dryness. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to treat musculoskeletal symptoms. For individuals with severe complications, corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed.
Prognosis
Sjögren's syndrome can damage vital organs of the body with symptoms that may remain stable, worsen, or go into remission. Some people may experience only the mild symptoms of dry eyes and mouth, while others go through cycles of good health followed by severe disease. Many patients are able to treat problems symptomatically. Others are forced to cope with blurred vision, constant eye discomfort, recurrent mouth infections, swollen parotid glands, hoarseness, and difficulty in swallowing and eating. Debilitating fatigue and joint pain can seriously impair quality of life.
Research
The goals of research on disorders such as Sjögren's syndrome focus on increasing knowledge and understanding of the disorder, improving diagnostic techniques, testing interventions, and finding ways to treat, prevent, and cure the disease.
View a list of studies currently seeking patients.
View more studies on this condition.
Read additional information from Medline Plus.
Organizations
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
Federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare "orphan" diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. Committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service.
55 Kenosia Avenue
Danbury, CT 06810
Tel: 203-744-0100
Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
National Institutes of Health, DHHS
31 Center Dr., Rm. 4C02 MSC 2350
31 Center Dr., Rm. 4C02 MSC 2350
Bethesda, MD 20892-2350
Tel: 301-496-8190
877-22-NIAMS (226-4267)
National Eye Institute (NEI)
National Institutes of Health, DHHS
31 Center Drive, Rm. 6A32 MSC 2510
31 Center Drive, Rm. 6A32 MSC 2510
Bethesda, MD 20892-2510
Tel: 301-496-5248
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
National Institutes of Health, DHHS
31 Center Drive, Room 5B-55
31 Center Drive, Room 5B-55
Bethesda, MD 20892
Tel: 301-496-4261
Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation
National nonprofit organization of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers dedicated to support, education, and the stimulation of research toward better treatments and a cure for Sjogren's syndrome.
6707 Democracy Blvd.
Suite 325
Suite 325
Bethesda, MD 20817
Tel: 800-4-SJOGREN (475-6473)
Fax: 301-530-4415
Arthritis Foundation
Volunteer-driven organization that works to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control, and cure of arthritis and related diseases. Offers free brochures on various types of arthritis, treatment options, and management of daily activities when affected.
P.O. Box 7669
Atlanta, GA 30357
Tel: 800-283-7800
404-872-7100
404-965-7888
Fax: 404-872-0457