14. Sjögren’s and the Skin: A Less Recognized Battlefield
When one thinks of Sjögren’s, the skin might not immediately come to mind. However, the integumentary system—our body’s largest organ—is not immune to the syndrome’s effects. It’s not just the internal glands that face the brunt; the skin, too, often tells its own story.
People with Sjögren’s might notice their skin becoming excessively dry, leading to conditions such as xerosis. This isn’t merely an aesthetic concern; it can cause itching, flaking, and even painful cracking. In some cases, small, round areas of vasculitis can develop, presenting as purplish spots.
But why does this happen? In Sjögren’s, the immune system, in its misguided mission, targets the oil glands in the skin, reducing sebum production. This sebum is crucial for skin hydration and, without it, dryness ensues.
Soothing the skin requires more than just moisturization. It involves understanding the nature of Sjögren’s impact and adopting a skincare routine that caters to it. Regular hydration, avoiding harsh chemicals, and choosing skin products wisely becomes the mantra.(14)
