Experimental Therapies in Sjögren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome (SjS) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder of exocrine glands that has a particular predilection for the lacrimal and salivary glands. Dry mouth and dry eyes are frequently proffered as presenting symptoms [1, 2]. These are in many cases accompanied by several nonspecific symptoms, such as malaise and fatigue [3]. In addition, extraglandular manifestations such as purpura, polyneuropathy, and arthritis can be present even as presenting signs of the disease [2]. The occurrence of lymphomas is another important issue in SjS that requires timely diagnosis and treatment [4]. This enlarges the possibilities for therapies aimed to slow down, stop, or even reverse the further development of SjS. This chapter describes experimental therapies that are aimed at reducing disease activity or reversing the progression of SjS [5].