Updated Guideline for Managing Sjögren Disease Focuses on “Doing the Little Things Well”

Title: Updated Guideline for Sjögren Disease Focuses on “Doing the Little Things Well”

In Liverpool, England, the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) has released an updated guideline on the management of Sjögren disease, urging healthcare providers to prioritize the small details in patient care. The new guideline emphasizes the importance of holistic care and lifestyle advice, rather than solely focusing on rheumatologic treatments.

Consultant rheumatologist Elizabeth Price, who led the development of the updated guideline, highlighted the need to address the specific clinical questions surrounding Sjögren disease. The guideline now includes recommendations for managing the condition in children and adolescents, making it the first in the UK to cover Sjögren disease “across the ages.”

One of the key changes in the updated guideline is the shift in terminology, moving away from the term “primary Sjögren’s syndrome” to simply “Sjögren disease.” This change reflects a broader approach to the condition and aligns with current trends in medical terminology.

The guideline also addresses concerns about the development of lymphoma in patients with Sjögren disease, providing recommendations for early detection and monitoring of potential risk factors. Additionally, the guideline emphasizes the importance of addressing comorbidities associated with Sjögren disease, such as thyroid disease and celiac disease.

Overall, the updated guideline emphasizes the importance of “doing the little things well” in the management of Sjögren disease. From prescribing preservative-free eye drops to advising on dental care and maintaining a neutral pH in the mouth, the guideline provides practical recommendations for improving patient outcomes.

Patient advocate Bridget Crampton, who has lived with Sjögren disease for 20 years, praised the new guideline for empowering patients to take a more active role in their care. She hopes that the guideline will standardize care across the UK and improve access to information for both patients and clinicians.

The updated guideline on Sjögren disease is now available on the BSR website, providing a comprehensive resource for healthcare providers and patients alike.