Sjogren’s Syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the moisture-producing glands in the body, such as the salivary and tear glands. As a result, individuals with this condition often experience dryness in the mouth, eyes, and other areas of the body [1]. But did you know that if left untreated, Sjogren’s Syndrome can also lead to more severe complications? Let’s explore this condition and how stem cells can effectively manage it.
Causes and Risk Factors of Sjogren’s
Autoimmune Response – Like many common autoimmune diseases, Sjogren’s Syndrome occurs when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks its cells and tissues. In this case, the 
immune system targets the moisture-producing glands, causing inflammation and damage. But what exactly triggers this abnormal immune response?
Genetic factors can also play a role in developing Sjogren’s Syndrome. Certain gene variations have been associated with an increased risk of the condition, suggesting that a family history of autoimmune diseases could make you more susceptible. Learn about genetic testing for autoimmune diseases.
Environmental Factors, such as viral or bacterial infections, might contribute to developing Sjogren’s Syndrome. Some experts theorize that an infection may trigger the immune system to attack the body’s cells, leading to the onset diagnosis of the disease.
Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome (pSS)
Dry eyes are a common symptom of Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome. The lack of moisture can cause irritation, redness, and a gritty eye feeling. More severe cases can even lead to corneal damage and vision problems. Did you know that wearing sunglasses outdoors and using a humidifier indoors can help alleviate dry eye symptoms?
Dry Mouth is another hallmark symptom of Sjogren’s Syndrome and can make it difficult to chew and swallow food, speak clearly, and taste properly. Additionally, a lack of saliva can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, so maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for individuals with this condition[2]. In roughly 15–20% of patients who are diagnosed with pSS, there are lesions in the brain (central nervous system) that are similar to those in patients with multiple sclerosis .
Secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome
Fatigue is a common complaint among people with Sjogren’s Syndrome and FMS. It can be mentally and physically draining, making it difficult to perform daily tasks and participate in social activities. Remember to consider how fatigue can affect your overall well-being [3].
Joint Pain – Those with Sjogren’s Syndrome may also experience joint pain, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, inflammation of the spine, and overall stiffness. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits mobility, especially in the lower back, neck, shoulders, knees, and hips. Finding ways to manage joint pain effectively is essential, such as through orthopedic stem cells, physical therapy, or gentle exercise.
Swollen Glands – Some individuals with Sjogren’s Syndrome may notice swelling in the glands around their face and neck areas for cases of myasthenia gravis and patients with Hashimoto’s disease. This can be due to the inflammation in the moisture-producing glands, leading to discomfort and tenderness.
Complications due to Sjogren’s
Dental Issues – As mentioned earlier, dry mouth can lead to a higher risk of tooth decay and the development of gum disease. It’s crucial for individuals with Sjogren’s Syndrome to maintain good dental hygiene and have regular oral check-ups to prevent complications.
Eye Infections—A lack of eye tears can facilitate infection development. It’s essential to keep your eyes clean and moist and seek medical attention if you notice signs of infection, redness, swelling, or discharge.
Lung Infections – In rare cases, Sjogren’s Syndrome can also affect the lungs, causing inflammation that leads to scarring and infections. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain. Involvement of the lungs and respiratory system can cause dry airways, lung fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These are especially common in patients who are diagnosed with primary Sjögren’s syndrome.
Neurological and Neurodegenerative – The presence of autoimmune disorders such as SS has been reported to increase the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like MND and ALS, which suggests the possibility of shared genetic architecture between these diseases. Other clinical evidence from some observational studies has also shown that Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) can contribute to a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (PD), neuropathy, and dementia; however, it remains unknown if these associations are causal.
What other autoimmune diseases are associated with Sjogren’s syndrome?
A diagnosis of Sjögren’s is often accompanied by other autoimmune disorders such as connective tissue disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, autoimmune thyroid disease, scleroderma, ankylosing spondylitis, sarcoidosis, UC, pancreatitis, antiphospholipid syndrome, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, end-stage inclusion body myositis and diseases that mimic rheumatoid arthritis. What are the four stages of rheumatoid arthritis?
Diagnosing Sjogren’s Syndrome
Medical History and Physical Examination – Diagnosing Sjogren’s Syndrome begins with a thorough review of your medical history and a physical examination. Your primary care doctor will ask about your symptoms and look for signs of dryness in your eyes and mouth.
Biochemistry tests—Blood tests can be ordered to check for specific markers associated with Sjogren’s Syndrome, such as antibodies and inflammatory proteins. These tests can help support the diagnosis and rule out other possible conditions. Due to the many overlapping symptoms, imaging studies from MRI/CT scan/X-rays or biopsies are often needed to confirm the diagnosis of SS. These might include a salivary gland biopsy, Schirmer’s test eye exam, imaging studies from sialogram, or salivary gland ultrasound.
Treatment and Management of SS
Rapid Symptom relief using artificial tears and saliva – One of the primary treatment goals for Sjogren’s Syndrome is to alleviate dryness in the eyes and mouth. Artificial tears and saliva substitutes can help provide relief and prevent complications.
Medications – Various medications can be prescribed to help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. These include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and medications that stimulate saliva production.
Lifestyle Changes, including Proper Diet and Nutrition – A balanced diet, rich in organic nutrients, can help support overall health and may improve symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome. Staying hydrated and consuming foods that are easy to chew and swallow are essential. A good diet is also a great way to reduce brain fog, increase cognitive abilities, and boost stem cells naturally.
Exercise and Stress Management – Regular exercise and stress reduction techniques can help improve overall well-being and may alleviate some symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. Gentle exercises like yoga, swimming, or walking can be particularly beneficial. Mindfulness practice, such as meditation or deep breathing to boost lung capacity, can also help manage stress and improve overall health.
TREATMENT RISKS & PRECAUTIONS
Please note that not all patients are good candidates for treating Sjogren’s Syndrome with stem cells. Patients with severe complications, such as advanced kidney dysfunction, significant lung involvement (e.g., interstitial lung disease), or severe neuropathy, may not be good candidates for treatment.Stem Cell Therapy for Sjogren’s Syndrome
Isolated Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC+) and stromal cells offer immunomodulatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the body. Our state-of-the-art stem cell lab in Bangkok can differentiate MSC cells into many other types of cells and growth factors, including osteocytes, fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) & chondrocytes. By using specific lineages of cells and growth factors, the immune system is altered safely to reduce the negative inflammatory processes. Mesenchymal stem cells can be isolated from several sources, including bone marrow, adipose fatty tissue, umbilical cords, peripheral blood, and gingiva. The secretory capacities of UC-MSC+ stem cells give them the immunomodulatory properties used in cell therapies for autoimmune diseases [4].
Can Stem Cells Help With Sjögren’s Syndrome?
UC-MSC+ cells offer an effective treatment option for chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s Syndrome. For patients with SS, it mainly affects the exocrine glands, including lacrimal and salivary glands. Results have shown promising improvements in stabilizing salivary secretions and decreasing lymphocytic infiltration (salivary glands) in patients with SS. The isolated and expanded stem cells are usually delivered via intravenous injections, intramuscular, infra-peritoneal infusions, or a combination of delivery methods as needed. Isolated UC-MSC+ infusions are done as an outpatient procedure over roughly two weeks. They can lead to a reduction of inflammatory cytokines along with an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines and suppression of serum interleukin-12 (IL-12) [5]. The success of stem cell treatment for Sjögren’s syndrome is measured using follow-up tests roughly 3-4 months post-therapy.
Cost of Treating Sjögren’s Syndrome with Stem Cells
Our multi-stage treatment for Primary & Secondary Sjögren’s syndrome with Stem Cells will require 10-14 days in Thailand, depending on the patient’s needs. Due to the varying degrees, areas with symptoms, and stages of the condition, our medical team will need to better understand the patient’s current health before acceptance into our program. Upon completion of the medical evaluation, our recommendations and detailed treatment plan will be provided, including the specifics, types, and quantities of cells, the exact number of nights required, and the total medical-related costs for the entire program. To begin your evaluation for our multi-stage treatment for autoimmune diseases such as SS, please prepare your recent medical records, such as antinuclear antibody (ANA) panels, CBC, Schirmer tear test, or lip biopsies and contact us today.
Published Clinical Citations
[1] ^Jonsson R, Brokstad KA, Jonsson MV, Delaleu N, Skarstein K. Current concepts on Sjögren’s syndrome – classification criteria and biomarkers. Eur J Oral Sci. 2018 Oct;126 Suppl 1(Suppl Suppl 1):37-48. doi: 10.1111/eos.12536. PMID: 30178554; PMCID: PMC6586012.
[2] ^Kosrirukvongs P, Ngowyutagon P, Pusuwan P, Koolvisoot A, Nilganuwong S. Prevalence of dry eye syndrome and Sjogren’s syndrome in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. J Med Assoc Thailand. 2012 Apr;95 Suppl 4:S61-9. PMID: 22696854.
[3] ^Yong WC, Sanguankeo A, Upala S. Association between primary Sjogren’s syndrome, arterial stiffness, and subclinical atherosclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rheumatol. 2019 Feb;38(2):447-455. doi: 10.1007/s10067-018-4265-1. Epub 2018 Sep 3. PMID: 30178172.
[4] ^Chen W, Yu Y, Ma J, Olsen N, Lin J. Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome: Prospective and Challenges. Stem Cells Int. 2018 Sep 16;2018:4357865. doi: 10.1155/2018/4357865. PMID: 30305818; PMCID: PMC6165618.
[5] ^Faustman DL, Davis M. Stem cells in the spleen: therapeutic potential for Sjogren’s syndrome, type I diabetes, and other disorders. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2010 Oct;42(10):1576-9. doi: 10.1016/j.biocel.2010.06.012. Epub 2010 Jun 18. PMID: 20601088; PMCID: PMC4104595.