However, most persons with such symptoms have atrophic mucus-producing cells rather than an autoimmune disease. Patients with xerophthalmia report a foreign body sensation or grittiness in the eyes. Patients with xerostomia have a need to drink copious amounts of fluids, a loss of taste, and excessive dental caries. The diagnosis is based on the symptoms. Although rarely needed, biopsy of the minor salivary gland of the lip can confirm the diagnosis.
Patients show evidence of focal or diffuse lymphocytic infiltration of the glands.
Treatment Treatment is symptomatic. Artificial tears and lemon and glycerin mouth rinse are the standard therapies. An autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and thickening of the skin over the fingers, arms, chest, and face. Systemic sclerosis is rare among elderly persons. The cause is unknown.