A recent study published in the scientific journal PLOS One has determined that patients with the rare disorder primary Sjögren’s syndrome are at a greater risk of bladder problems than previously thought. Conditions affecting the bladder that were linked with the syndrome include bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis and overactive bladder. This was a nationwide study that was conducted in Taiwan and utilized records from the country’s National Health Insurance Research Database.
About Sjögren’s Syndrome
Sjögren’s syndrome is rare, chronic, autoimmune disorder that specifically impacts the moisture-producing glands of the body. It is most distinguished by dry skin, eyes, and mouth. The disease often manifests in the fourth or fifth decade of life. Vaginal dryness is also a problem for female patients, who are more commonly affected by the disease than men. A combination of genetic predisposition alongside an environmental triggering event (such as an infection) are believed to cause Sjögren’s syndrome. A family history of autoimmune disease is considered a risk factor. Aside from persistent dryness in various areas of the body, disease progression can cause more systemic symptoms, like fatigue, difficulty swallowing, joint pain, and kidney dysfunction. The syndrome also increases risk of other autoimmune diseases and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Treatment is symptomatic and includes NSAIDs, artificial tears, and other immunosuppressant drugs. To learn more about Sjögren’s syndrome, click here.
About The Study
The study looked at data from over 11,000 patients. Prior research has suggests that patients with this syndrome had an increased risk of overactive bladder and interstitial cystitis. When compared to the control group, the risk of bladder problems was increased by 1.68 times. The researchers were also able to identify several risk factors for patients.
Patients that were female, less than 65 years old, and receiving treatment for sicca complex (dry mouth and eyes) were at the greatest risk for bladder overactivity and interstitial cystitis. The researchers conclude that it is clear that Sjögren’s syndrome patients face an elevated risk of bladder issues and patients and physicians need to be aware of these potential complications to improve both treatment outcomes and diagnostic rates for the syndrome.
