American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which medication is NOT recommended for treating Sicca symptoms in Sjögren syndrome?

1. Hydration solutions

2. Immunosuppressive agents

3. Artificial tears

4. Saline nasal sprays

The correct answer is: Immunosuppressive agents

In the management of Sicca symptoms associated with Sjögren syndrome, hydration solutions, artificial tears, and saline nasal sprays are commonly recommended therapeutic options aimed at alleviating dryness in the eyes and mucous membranes. These treatments primarily focus on symptom relief, enhancing moisture, and improving the patient’s quality of life. Immunosuppressive agents, on the other hand, are generally not indicated for the symptomatic relief of Sicca symptoms. While they may be used to manage systemic manifestations of Sjögren syndrome or associated autoimmune conditions, they do not directly address the dryness that characterizes the Sicca symptoms. Therefore, employing immunosuppressive agents specifically for symptom relief in Sicca syndrome is not supported by clinical guidelines focusing on symptom management. Thus, the correct response highlights the distinction between the supportive therapies that alleviate symptoms and the treatment for the broader bases of the autoimmune condition.