SJÖGREN SYNDROME: OPHTHALMOLOGICAL DISORDERS AND CLINICAL THERAPY

Abstract

Sjögren's Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions of people around the world. One of the areas most impacted by this disease is ophthalmology, due to the significant eye disorders that patients face. In this context, clinical therapy plays a crucial role in managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life of affected individuals. Objective: to comprehensively understand the ophthalmological disorders associated with Sjögren's Syndrome and evaluate the clinical therapeutic strategies used to alleviate these symptoms. Methodology: This systematic literature review adopted a methodology based on the PRISMA checklist (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and three databases were used to search for relevant studies: PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science. The descriptors used in the search were: "Sjögren's syndrome," "ophthalmological disorders," "clinical therapy," "ocular dryness," and "artificial tears." The inclusion criteria were as follows: studies that addressed Sjögren's Syndrome as the main topic, articles that discussed ophthalmological disorders associated with Sjögren's Syndrome, research that investigated clinical therapeutic strategies for the treatment of ophthalmological symptoms in patients with Sjögren's Syndrome, studies published in peer-reviewed journals and works available in English, Spanish or Portuguese. The exclusion criteria were as follows: studies that did not directly address the relationship between Sjögren's Syndrome, ophthalmological disorders and clinical therapy, articles not published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and works in languages other than those specified for inclusion. Results: 12 studies were selected. It has been observed that Sjögren's Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that predominantly affects the exocrine glands, including the lacrimal glands. Ophthalmological disorders, such as dry eyes and conjunctivitis, are common symptoms and significantly impact patients' quality of life. The review highlighted the importance of early diagnosis of Sjögren's Syndrome, especially in patients presenting ophthalmological symptoms. Specific tests, such as the Schirmer test and salivary gland biopsy, play a fundamental role in confirming the diagnosis. Several clinical therapeutic approaches have been analyzed in the literature, including the use of artificial tears, anti-inflammatory eye drops, immunosuppressants, and tear production-stimulating agents. These strategies aim to alleviate ophthalmological symptoms and improve patients' quality of life. Conclusion: This systematic literature review highlighted the importance of clinical assessment of ophthalmological disorders in patients with Sjögren's Syndrome. Although useful therapeutic strategies have been identified, there is a continued need for research and improvement in the management of this complex condition, aiming to provide a better quality of life for affected patients.