Rheumatology · NEET PG Preparation Medicine

A 55-year-old woman complains of severe dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia) for the past year. She also has bilateral pa…

Practice question from Rheumatology (NEET PG Preparation Medicine), with the correct answer and a step-by-step solution.

medium · MCQ · Q-A03ECB

A 55-year-old woman complains of severe dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia) for the past year. She also has bilateral parotid gland enlargement. Serological tests are positive for anti-SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La) antibodies. Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis by evaluating minor salivary gland involvement?

  1. A.Parotid sialography
  2. B.Lower lip labial salivary gland biopsyCorrect answer
  3. C.Fine-needle aspiration cytology of the parotid gland
  4. D.Schirmer's test

Solution

Sjögren syndrome is characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of exocrine glands. A labial minor salivary gland biopsy showing focal lymphocytic sialadenitis is a hallmark diagnostic criterion. Schirmer's test evaluates tear production but does not provide histological confirmation.

More from Rheumatology

All of Rheumatology

Practise more Medicine

Sign up free for adaptive practice on this chapter, with instant feedback and hints on every question.

Start practising free

Free to start · No credit card needed