American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Patients with Sjögren syndrome are at a significantly higher risk of developing what?

Cardiovascular disease
Kidney stones
Lymphoma
Diabetes mellitus

The correct answer is: Lymphoma

Patients with Sjögren syndrome are at a significantly higher risk of developing lymphoma due to the nature of the disease. Sjögren syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the infiltration of lymphocytes into exocrine glands, particularly the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to dry mouth and dry eyes. The chronic inflammation associated with this autoimmune process can result in a specific type of cancer called non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is more prevalent in individuals with Sjögren syndrome compared to the general population. The risk of lymphoma in these patients is thought to be related to the persistent immune dysregulation and lymphoproliferation that occur as a result of the autoimmune attack on glandular tissues. Regular monitoring and consideration for the development of lymphoproliferative disorders are important aspects of managing patients with Sjögren syndrome, emphasizing the need for awareness of this serious complication.