Sjogren’s syndrome presenting as ischemic stroke

Abstract

Background We describe a young woman who presented with minor stroke as a first clinical symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) in the absence of well-known risk factors for cerebrovascular disease. Case Description The medical history included recurrent miscarriages and sun rashes, which directed the diagnosis toward inununologic disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus and an tiphospholipid antibody syndrome, which are often associated with stroke. Only complete laboratory testing, including SSB antibody studies, and ophthalmologic and salivary gland evaluation revealed the correct diagnosis. Conclusions Sjögren’s syndrome should be considered among the causes of stroke, especially in a young female patient. © 1994 American Heart Association, Inc.