Utility of salivary gland biopsy in diagnosing Sjogren's syndrome in a POTS patient population

Auton Neurosci. 2020 Sep:227:102694. doi: 10.1016/j.autneu.2020.102694. Epub 2020 Jun 16.

Abstract

Purpose: POTS patients undergo labial salivary gland biopsies (LSGB) for histologic confirmation of Sjogren's syndrome (SS). Predictive features of positive results are unknown.

Methods: 161 POTS patients underwent LSGB. Their charts were reviewed for antibody and diagnostic testing results.

Results: Only 11% (17/161) of POTS patients were SS positive. There were more positive ANA antibodies in those with positive LSGB (65% v 28%, p = .0026). Positive skin nerve biopsy for small fiber neuropathy (SFN) was associated with positive LSGB (p = .046).

Conclusion: A positive ANA and skin biopsy for SFN are two helpful features in selecting POTS patients for LSGB.

Keywords: Postural tachycardia syndrome; Sjogren's syndrome; Small fiber neuropathy.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Antinuclear
  • Biopsy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome / immunology
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Salivary Glands, Minor / pathology*
  • Sjogren's Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Sjogren's Syndrome / immunology
  • Skin / innervation
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Small Fiber Neuropathy / diagnosis*
  • Small Fiber Neuropathy / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antinuclear