Hla-D Antigen Frequencies in Sjögren's Syndrome: Differences between the primary and secondary form

Abstract

HLA-A, B, C and D typing was performed in 19 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (primary SS) and in 15 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and secondary Sjögren's syndrome (RA-SS). In the primary SS group, the frequency of HLA-Dw2 was increased (pppppp<0.05). We conclude that genetic factors associated with the HLA-system are involved in the development of Sjögren's syndrome and that these genetic factors are different in primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome. In primary Sjögren's syndrome, the association with both Dw2 and Dw3 might suggest a further heterogeneity of the syndrome.