A validated method of labial minor salivary gland biopsy for the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome

Abstract

Objectives/hypothesis: To validate a technique and outcomes of labial minor salivary gland biopsy (LSGB) used for the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome (SS).

Study design: Prospective cohort study.

Methods: Clinical data were prospectively obtained pre- and postbiopsy using patient-reported questionnaires. LSGB was performed using described methods. Specimens were analyzed by a pathologist with expertise in SS and assessed using established criteria to determine the focus score. Data were analyzed using cross-tabulations.

Results: Among the 58 patients in the study, 52 (90%) presented with sicca symptoms of dry eyes and/or mouth. Eight patients (14%) had histopathologic findings supportive of a diagnosis of SS. At 1 month postbiopsy, greater than 71% of patients denied any complaints of pain, swelling, numbness. or tingling. Sixteen patients (28%) had only a minor level of complaints. Only one patient complained of severe numbness at the biopsy site. Greater than 70% of patients would consider rebiopsy after the procedure, if requested by their physician.

Conclusions: We present a safe and effective method of LSGB for the diagnosis of SS.

Level of evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 126:2041-2046, 2016.

Keywords: Labial salivary gland biopsy; Sjögren's syndrome; sicca.