Abstract

Volumetric Analysis of Brain Structures and Evaluation of Neurological Symptoms in Patients With Sjögren's Syndrome: Anatomical, Radiological, and Neurological Study

Sjögren's disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the body's glands. In this study, the volumes of many anatomical structures in the brains of female patients diagnosed with Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) were measured, and their neurological symptoms were evaluated. In our study, brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of 21 female patients with SS and 34 healthy women were evaluated, and the volumes of some anatomical structures were measured. After calculating the volumes, it was determined that the total temporal lobe volumes, right temporal lobe volumes, and 4^th ventricle volumes of patients with SS were significantly smaller compared to the control group. In SS patients, the volume of the right corpus amygdaloideum was found to be significantly smaller than the left side. Volume measurements of other anatomical structures, except vermis volume, were smaller than those in the control group but statistically insignificant. When patients with primary and secondary SS were compared: left corpus amygdaloideum volume, left insular cortex volume, total corpus amygdaloideum volume, and total insular cortex volume were found to be significantly smaller in secondary SS patients. Our study shows that structures related to the limbic lobe are more affected in patients with secondary SS. The most common neurological symptoms in patients are vertigo, headaches, and forgetfulness. Headache symptoms correlate with nucleus accumbens and third ventricle volume. SS can cause neurological symptoms in patients and affect the anatomical structures of the brain, even if their neurological examinations are normal. We recommend early diagnosis and treatment of the disease and regular neurological check-ups.

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