Sjögren's Syndrome Associated with Vitamin B12Deficiency

SummaryThree patients showing Sjögren's syndrome in association with macrocytic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency are described. Antibodies to parietal cells, intrinsic factor and salivary protein were investigated; positive test results were obtained in different combinations. Addisonian pernicious anemia as well as vitamin B12-malabsorption because of anti-intrinsic factor antibodies in gastric juice and/or malabsorption due to changes in the intestinal wall induced by Sjögren's syndrome are possible etiological factors. A case of Sjögren's syndrome associated with positive anti-parietal cell antibodies and histamine-refractory achylia is also reported. The concurrence of these two diseases known to be associated with autoimmune responses suggests the possibility of similar pathogenesis.