Purpose: We studied the difference in severity between primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome (SS).
Subjects and methods: Two groups of patients (all females, mean age: 58 years), 31 with primary SS and 18 with secondary SS were studied. We performed the following dry eye tests: fluorescein score and Rose Bengal staining, grading of tear lipid layer interference patterns, measurement of fluorescein break up time, cotton thread test, and Schirmer-I test. Auto antibodies were also investigated.
Results: There was no significant difference between primary and secondary SS with respect to any dry eye tests or auto antibodies. In primary SS, however, the presence of anti SS-A antibody was significantly correlated with Rose Bengal scores (p = 0.044).
Conclusion: The severity of SS is independent of the primary or secondary type. In primary SS, the presence of anti SS-A antibody may be correlated with the severity.