Pathology · single question
What is the most characteristic histopathologic finding in the minor salivary glands of a patient with Sjögren syndrome?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Multifocal lymphocytic infiltration
- A. Correct. Focal (multifocal) lymphocytic sialadenitis — dense lymphocytic foci around ducts on labial/minor gland biopsy — is the hallmark of Sjögren syndrome.
- B. Caseating granulomas suggest tuberculosis, not Sjögren.
- C. Neutrophilic microabscesses indicate acute bacterial infection, not autoimmune sialadenitis.
- D. Sjögren shows acinar ATROPHY with lymphocytic replacement, not acinar hypertrophy.