Comparrison of the diagnostik value of biopsy of the sublingual gland and labial gland in sjögrens syndrom

Introduction Besides the assessment of antibodies (SS-A/Ro, SS-B/La) the histopathologic results are essential for the diagnosis of Sjögrens syndrome (SS). The standard procedure is the biopsy of the labial gland. Disadvantages are a small sample size as well as local scarring and dysesthesia. A further method is the biopsy of the parotid gland. The advantage is a larger sample and the option of re-biopsy. Possible complications are damage to the facial nerve as well as a visible scar and salivary fistula. The biopsy of the sublingual gland is an alternative method, which combines the advantages of foresaid methods at reduced risk.