Xerostomia, xerophthalmia, and plasmacytic infiltrates of the salivary glands (Sjogren's-like syndrome) in a cat

A 2.5-year-old domestic shorthair cat was evaluated because of dysphagia an d weight loss of 4 weeks' duration. Mild blepharospasm and conjunctival hyp eremia were evident in both eyes, oral mucous membranes were tacky on palpa tion, and salivary glands were enlarged. Results of a Schirmer tear test we re 0 mm/min for both eyes. Administration of atropine did not cause salivat ion or caused secretion of thick ropelike saliva. Examination of biopsy spe cimens of salivary glands revealed a plasmacytic infiltrate. Sjogren's synd rome (SS) was diagnosed. Oral administration of prednisone was instituted b ut was discontinued after a minimal positive response was evident 6 weeks a fter initiation of treatment. Palliative treatment with a 6% solution of pi locarpine 4 to 5 times/d, cyclosporine, hylan A, and neomycin-polymyxin-bac itracin ophthalmic ointment resulted in clinical improvement in the cat. Al though reported rarely in animals, SS may be more common than currently is recognized. Most treatment regimens for SS are aimed at alleviating clinica l signs.