Sjögren syndrome xerostomia — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateBiomedical SciencesSjögren syndrome xerostomiaNDEB AFK

A 54-year-old woman has rampant cervical caries, dry eyes, and difficulty swallowing dry food. Salivary flow is reduced and the parotid glands are mildly enlarged. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Sjögren syndrome

The combination of xerostomia, keratoconjunctival symptoms, parotid enlargement, and cervical caries supports Sjögren syndrome. Cushing syndrome may increase infection risk and alter facies but does not typically cause this sicca pattern. The clinical pearl is that reduced salivary flow increases caries, candidiasis, and denture intolerance risk.

Reference: Canadian oral medicine reference texts; NDEB KSAs 2024