Pathology · single question

A 44-year-old patient with hypertension complains of dry eyes and dry mouth. What is the most likely diagnosis?

  1. Sjogren syndrome
  2. Ramsay Hunt syndrome
  3. Oral mucosal hyperkeratosis
  4. Antihypertensive medication side effects only
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Sjogren syndrome

The classic presentation of sicca symptoms — dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) AND dry mouth (xerostomia) together — is pathognomonic for Sjogren syndrome, an autoimmune exocrinopathy targeting salivary and lacrimal glands. Primary Sjogren syndrome presents with sicca complex alone. While antihypertensive medications can cause xerostomia, they do not cause dry eyes. Ramsay Hunt syndrome presents with facial palsy, ear vesicles, and otalgia — not sicca symptoms. Diagnosis is confirmed by minor salivary gland biopsy showing lymphocytic infiltration, positive anti-SSA/anti-SSB antibodies, and abnormal Schirmer test.

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