Sjögren's Syndrome: Diagnosis Make an Appointment Refer a Patient Ask a Question Reviewed by Mehrnaz Maleki Fischbach, MD (April 01, 2019) It is often difficult to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome. In fact, it may take years before a definite diagnosis is made. A specialist in autoimmune diseases (known as a rheumatologist) is usually required to establish the diagnosis. The diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome is made based on the careful analysis of many factors. A thorough history and physical examination are essential. Also, there are certain laboratory studies that can be helpful when considering the diagnosis. It is important to note that a diagnosis cannot be made based on any specific blood test alone. In 2016, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) jointly endorsed a new set of criteria for the classification of primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS) derived through international consensus. These criteria are based on testing of the saliva, blood and eyes. ACR/EULAR classification criteria for primary Sjögren's syndrome Item Weight/Score Saliva Labial salivary gland (salivary glands near the mouth) A focal lymphocytic sialadenitis and focus score of ≥1 3 Unstimulated whole saliva flow rate ≤0.1 ml/minute 1 Blood test Anti-SSA/SSB (Ro) positive (antibodies to Ro/SSA antigen) 1 Eyes Ocular staining (measures damage to the surface of the eye) A score ≥5 (or van Bijsterfeld score ≥4) on at least one eye 1 Schirmer’s test (measures tear production) ≤5 mm/5 minutes on at least one eye 1 The diagnosis of primary Sjögren's syndrome applies to any person who meets the inclusion criteria (has some of these symptoms) and who has a score of four or greater when the weights/scores from the five criteria are totaled. Sjögren's Syndrome: Symptoms Sjögren's Syndrome: Treatment Clinical Trials For more than 100 years, National Jewish Health has been committed to finding new treatments and cures for diseases. Search our clinical trials.
Reviewed by Mehrnaz Maleki Fischbach, MD (April 01, 2019) It is often difficult to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome. In fact, it may take years before a definite diagnosis is made. A specialist in autoimmune diseases (known as a rheumatologist) is usually required to establish the diagnosis. The diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome is made based on the careful analysis of many factors. A thorough history and physical examination are essential. Also, there are certain laboratory studies that can be helpful when considering the diagnosis. It is important to note that a diagnosis cannot be made based on any specific blood test alone. In 2016, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) jointly endorsed a new set of criteria for the classification of primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS) derived through international consensus. These criteria are based on testing of the saliva, blood and eyes. ACR/EULAR classification criteria for primary Sjögren's syndrome Item Weight/Score Saliva Labial salivary gland (salivary glands near the mouth) A focal lymphocytic sialadenitis and focus score of ≥1 3 Unstimulated whole saliva flow rate ≤0.1 ml/minute 1 Blood test Anti-SSA/SSB (Ro) positive (antibodies to Ro/SSA antigen) 1 Eyes Ocular staining (measures damage to the surface of the eye) A score ≥5 (or van Bijsterfeld score ≥4) on at least one eye 1 Schirmer’s test (measures tear production) ≤5 mm/5 minutes on at least one eye 1 The diagnosis of primary Sjögren's syndrome applies to any person who meets the inclusion criteria (has some of these symptoms) and who has a score of four or greater when the weights/scores from the five criteria are totaled. Sjögren's Syndrome: Symptoms Sjögren's Syndrome: Treatment