Pathology · single question

A 44-year-old hypertensive female presents with complaints of dry eyes and dry mouth for several months. What is the most likely diagnosis?

  1. Sjogren syndrome
  2. Ramsay Hunt syndrome
  3. Hyperkeratosis
  4. Medication-induced xerostomia only
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Sjogren syndrome

The combination of dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia) is the classic presentation of Sjogren syndrome, an autoimmune exocrinopathy that primarily targets the lacrimal and salivary glands. Primary Sjogren syndrome presents with only glandular involvement; secondary Sjogren syndrome occurs with another autoimmune disease (commonly rheumatoid arthritis or lupus). While antihypertensive medications can cause xerostomia alone, they do not cause dry eyes and dry mouth together. Ramsay Hunt syndrome is caused by herpes zoster affecting the geniculate ganglion (facial palsy + ear vesicles).

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