Clinical Report: Doppler Biomarkers in Sjögren’s Syndrome

Overview

Lacrimal gland color Doppler ultrasonography (LGCDUS) may provide an early diagnostic tool for primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (pSS) by detecting hemodynamic changes before structural alterations occur. This study found significant differences in vascular parameters between early-stage pSS patients and healthy controls.

Background

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by dry mouth and dry eyes due to inflammation of exocrine glands. Early detection of gland involvement is crucial for effective management, as current diagnostic methods have limitations. The potential of LGCDUS to identify early vascular changes in the lacrimal gland presents a promising avenue for improving diagnostic accuracy.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• LGCDUS detected significantly higher EDV and lower RI in early-stage pSS compared to controls.
• EDV was the only independent predictor of disease status in multivariable analysis.
• Inter-observer agreement for LGCDUS parameters was good to excellent, with ICC values above 0.75.
• Correlations were observed between lacrimal gland size and C-reactive protein levels.
• Current diagnostic methods for pSS have limitations, highlighting the need for non-invasive techniques like LGCDUS.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that LGCDUS could serve as a non-invasive adjunct to current diagnostic methods for Sjögren’s syndrome, particularly in identifying early gland involvement. Ophthalmologists may consider incorporating LGCDUS into their diagnostic workflows to enhance early detection and management of pSS.

Conclusion

While further research is needed to validate these findings in larger cohorts, LGCDUS shows promise as a tool for early detection of lacrimal gland involvement in Sjögren’s syndrome, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Related Resources & Content

1. Scientific Reports, 2026 -- A novel potential method for early diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome: lacrimal gland color doppler ultrasonography
2. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Genetic variants associated with Sjögren’s disease subtypes stratified by clinical feature
3. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2021 -- THE SJOGREN'S PARADOX
4. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2014 -- Identifying Sjogren's Syndrome
5. Classification Criteria | Sjögren’s Foundation
6. Ophthalmology Management — WHEN Dry Eye Isn’t Just DRY EYE
7. Classification Criteria | Sjögren’s Foundation
8. A novel potential method for early diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome: lacrimal gland color doppler ultrasonography | Scientific Reports
9. Novartis ianalumab first drug to reduce disease activity and patient burden in Sjögren’s disease Phase III trials | Novartis