KERATOCONJUNCTIVITIS SICCA

Abstract

The fact that deficient lacrimation may produce disturbances of the cornea and the conjunctiva has long been known (Wagenmann,¹1893). Comparatively recently (Fuchs,²1919) it began to be suspected that the decrease in function of the lacrimal gland might be a manifestation of a systemic disturbance. In 1933 Sjögren's classic monograph^3aappeared, and his name is given to the syndrome of keratoconjunctivitis sicca, laryngopharyngitis sicca and enlargement of the parotid gland. <h3>ETIOLOGY</h3> Sometimes the cause of the diminution in lacrimal secretion is obvious. Congenital absence of the lacrimal gland has been reported by Duke-Elder⁴and others. Lisch⁵reported deficient lacrimation in three generations of one family: Of 13 members examined, only 2 were free of the disease. Surgical removal of the gland has been found responsible for this condition by Wagenmann,¹Avižonis,⁶P. Knapp⁷and Engelking.⁸In a case reported