Molley--
Funny you should post this question about Sjogren's Syndrome--I was just
reading about it in a terrific menopause newsletter I subscribe to, called
"A Friend Indeed." While this newsletter is focused on menopause, the author
is a fantastic wealth of knowledge, and may be able to answer this question,
or point your client in the right direction for further information. I've
seen reference to SS in a number of AFI issues through the years, and wonder
if it is more common as women approach menopause. Anyway, Janine O'Leary
Cobb can be contacted at [log in to unmask]  The AFI web page (which may
have searchable archives, I'm not sure) is: http://www.odyssee.net/~janine

I have no idea whether the syndrome could affect milk supply, although I
think it's possible. There is a foundation in the US for sufferers of the
syndrome--this client's sister may already know about it, but you may want
to pass the information along just in case she doesn't. They may also have
info on breastfeeding and the syndrome, or if they don't, the question may
get them searching.

The Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation
333 No. Broadway, Jericho, NY  17753  USA

Does she have any problems with joint inflammation? Merck's (16th ed, 1992,
p. 1312) says "One suspects SS with dryness of the eyes and mouth; joint
inflammation  completes the classic triad." There's quite a bit of
information about the lab tests, but it sounds as though these aren't done
when the 3 symptoms are present. Good luck with this client, and please keep
us posted.


Leslie Ayre-Jaschke, BEd, IBCLC
Peace River, Alberta, Canada (where it is sunny but not warm, and where I'm
busy packing to leave tomorrow to take my mother-in-law to the BIG CITY
(Edmonton) to see Riverdance on Tuesday. Should be fun.)