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SJÖGREN’S DISEASE

Sjögren’s Disease Treatment in New Jersey

Autoimmune Dry Eye & Systemic Disease Care for Patients In South & Central Jersey & Philadelphia

Sjögren’s disease is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture, most commonly causing persistent dryness in the eyes and mouth. In 2024, the international Sjögren’s community formally adopted the term “disease” to replace “syndrome,” reflecting the condition’s serious, systemic nature. It affects women roughly 9 times more often than men and typically develops between ages 45 and 55, though it can appear at any age. About half of those diagnosed also have a co-occurring autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. 

At Arthritis, Rheumatic & Bone Disease Associates, our rheumatologists diagnose and manage Sjögren’s disease as part of our full-spectrum autoimmune and inflammatory disease practice. Whether you're looking for a diagnosis, a second opinion, or long-term symptom management, our board-certified and board-eligible specialists are here to help.

If persistent dryness, joint pain, or fatigue is affecting your daily life, call (856) 424-5005 to schedule an evaluation with our New Jersey Sjögren’s disease specialists.

What Causes Sjögren’s Disease?

The exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, but Sjögren’s disease involves immune cells mistakenly attacking the body’s moisture-producing exocrine glands. Researchers have identified genetic variants associated with susceptibility, and having a first-degree relative with Sjögren’s or another autoimmune disease raises the risk. Hormonal factors are also under study, since the condition is far more common in women, and postmenopausal status appears to play a role. An existing autoimmune disorder, particularly lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, significantly increases risk as well.

Diagnosing Sjögren’s Disease

There is no single definitive test for Sjögren’s disease. Diagnosis depends on how well the tear and salivary glands function, along with evidence of autoimmunity from bloodwork. Standard blood tests include antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing, anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La antibodies, and rheumatoid factor. When antibody tests come back negative, a salivary gland biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Many patients with Sjögren’s disease also report significant joint and muscle pain. Our in-office diagnostic ultrasound center provides real-time imaging of joints, soft tissues, and tendons without radiation, allowing musculoskeletal involvement to be evaluated on-site rather than through a separate referral. 

Treatment Options for Sjögren’s Disease

There is no cure for Sjögren’s disease. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and preventing complications, with the plan shaped by which body parts are affected. Mild cases often start with artificial tears, saliva-stimulating measures, and medication for acid reflux caused by reduced saliva. 

When systemic involvement is present, physicians may prescribe hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, or methotrexate. More serious cases may require biologics such as rituximab, and patients with nervous system involvement may benefit from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

For patients who need biologic or immunoglobulin infusions, our IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Centers make that treatment accessible without a hospital stay. All seven infusion centers are located within our offices, and every infusion is supervised by an on-site medical professional at substantially lower cost than hospital-based treatment. 

Ready to take the next step? Call (856) 424-5005 to schedule an evaluation or treatment for Sjögren’s disease.

OUR PRACTICE by the Numbers

Over fifty years of independent rheumatology care, measured in facts.
  • 50 +
    Years in Practice

    Founded in 1974. Still independent. Still focused exclusively on rheumatology.

  • 29,000 +
    INFUSIONS IN A SINGLE YEAR

    Completed across seven IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Centers, all inside our offices.

  • 18
    Providers

    Every one fellowship-trained in rheumatology and board-certified or board-eligible.

  • 7
    New Jersey Offices

    Serving South and Central Jersey and the Philadelphia region from Voorhees to Brick.

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Patient Portal Call (856) 424-5005

Questions About Your Rheumatology Care

What is rheumatology?
Rheumatology is the branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the joints, bones, muscles, and immune system. Rheumatologists manage conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoporosis, gout, and more than 100 other autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
How is a rheumatologist different from a general practitioner?
After internal medicine residency, rheumatologists complete two to three additional years of fellowship training in diseases of the joints and immune system. Every physician at Arthritis, Rheumatic & Bone Disease Associates completed this training. A general practitioner does not have this specialized background.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring any prior lab results, imaging studies, or records from your primary care physician or previous specialists. A list of current medications is also helpful. Your physician will review everything before the examination and use it to inform your diagnostic workup.
How does in-office infusion therapy work?
Biologic medications for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis are sometimes administered intravenously rather than by pill or injection. Our IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Centers provide this treatment inside our offices with a medical professional supervising every session, at substantially lower cost than hospital-based infusion.
Is in-office ultrasound the same as radiology imaging?
Diagnostic ultrasound in our offices provides real-time images of joints, tendons, and soft tissue without radiation. Unlike a radiology referral, every scan at Arthritis, Rheumatic & Bone Disease Associates is interpreted by a physician with specific rheumatology training, so findings are evaluated in the context of your condition, not in isolation.
Do you coordinate with my primary care physician?
Yes. We collaborate closely with referring and primary care physicians, sharing records and findings so your care stays consistent across providers. You won't need to repeat your history or serve as the messenger between offices.