Neurological Involvement as the Initial Manifestation in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterised by exocrinopathy mainly involving the salivary and lacrimal glands. In addition, it is a multisystemic condition (i.e., affecting multiple organs and systems). Neurological involvement has been reported in ~20% of cases, with peripheral manifestations being the most frequent.

METHOD: We analysed four cases in which neurological manifestations were the first symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

RESULTS: In all four cases, neurological symptoms preceded sicca symptoms. In addition, immunosuppressive treatment with steroids and, in some cases, cyclophosphamide showed improvement.

CONCLUSION: Neurological involvement in Sjögren's syndrome is common and often occurs as the first clinical manifestation. Since evidence is limited, more studies are required in order to determine appropriate diagnostic methods and treatments for each manifestation of Sjögren's syndrome.