CARDIOVASCULAR MANIFESTATIONS IN SJÖGREN'S SYNDROME: RHEUMATOLOGICAL APPROACHES AND ENDOCRINE IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular manifestations in Sjögren's syndrome represent a significant and frequently underdiagnosed complication of this autoimmune disease. Sjögren's syndrome, characterized mainly by dry eyes and mouth, can also affect the cardiovascular system, resulting in a variety of conditions, such as vasculitis, myocarditis and endothelial dysfunction. In addition, the interaction between rheumatological factors and endocrine implications can aggravate these problems, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for the adequate management of patients. Objective: To analyze the cardiovascular manifestations associated with Sjögren's syndrome, focusing on rheumatological approaches and their endocrine implications. Methodology: The methodology was based on the PRISMA checklist and included searches in databases such as PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science. The descriptors used were “Sjögren's syndrome”, “cardiovascular manifestations”, “autoimmunity”, “vasculitis” and “myocarditis”. The following criteria were established for inclusion: clinical studies and reviews published in the last ten years, focus on cardiovascular manifestations, and relevance to clinical practice. Exclusion criteria included articles in languages ​​other than Portuguese or English, studies that did not address the cardiovascular aspect of the syndrome, and publications that did not present original data. Results: The results of the analysis indicated that the most common cardiovascular manifestations in Sjögren's syndrome include arrhythmias, pericarditis, and impaired blood flow. Studies have shown that chronic inflammation can lead to changes in endothelial function, contributing to increased cardiovascular risk. In addition, the presence of endocrine comorbidities, such as thyroid disease, often complicated the clinical picture. Conclusion: In summary, understanding the cardiovascular manifestations in Sjögren's syndrome is essential for more effective patient management. The rheumatological and endocrine implications require an integrated approach, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring. This review highlights the need for further research to fully elucidate these complex interactions and improve clinical outcomes.