AbstractBackground: Sjögren’s Syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by exocrine gland dysfunction, particularly affecting the salivary glands. Salivary gland ultrasonography (SGUS) has emerged as a valuable non-invasive tool for assessing glandular involvement in SS.
Material and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted enrolling 100 participants diagnosed according to the American-European Consensus Group’s revised criteria. Ultrasonographic features, including parenchymal echogenicity, inhomogeneity, hypoechogenic areas, hyperechogenic reflections, and glandular border clarity, were assessed using a semi-quantitative scoring system. ROC analysis, logistic regression, and discriminant analysis were performed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of these parameters.
Results: Hypoechogenic areas and inhomogeneity were the most frequently observed abnormalities and showed the highest diagnostic performance, with ROC areas of 0.982 and 0.974, respectively. Logistic regression identified these parameters as independent predictors of SS, while discriminant analysis highlighted their superior role in differentiating SS cases from controls.
Conclusion: Qualitative ultrasonographic assessment of the parotid gland is a highly effective, non-invasive modality for diagnosing Sjögren’s syndrome. Incorporating SGUS into routine evaluation can enhance early detection and reduce reliance on invasive diagnostic procedures.
