Abstract
A 63-year-old woman with type C chronic active hepatitis developed Sjögren's syndrome after being treated with recombinant interferon-alpha-2b. After 3 months' interferon-alpha administration, serum levels of γ-globulin (4.5 g/dl) and titers of antinuclear and anti-SS-A antibodies were greatly increased, anti-SS-B antibody appeared, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate was elevated. Although no xerostomia was exhibited, the patient experienced conjunctival dryness. Schirmer's test showed reduced lacrimal gland function and a gum test showed reduced salivary gland function. Sialography revealed scattered pools of retained contrast media with a diameter of around 1–2 mm. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome was made. This present case may provide important information regarding the pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome.
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Unoki, H., Moriyama, A., Tabaru, A. et al. Development of Sjögren's syndrome during treatment with recombinant human interferon-alpha-2b for chronic hepatitis C. J Gastroenterol 31, 723–727 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02347624
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02347624