**2. Focusing on MALT lymphoma**

The most important feature of MALT lymphoma is the presence of neoplastic cells (mainly B cells, as well as T cells) within epithelial structures, which may lead to destruction of the glandular architecture, also because of the formation of solid infiltrations.

Lymphomas in pSS are predominantly localized in salivary glands, which has been confirmed in many studies [23], whereas in the general population, MALT lymphoma is most often located in the stomach. The occurrence of MALT lymphoma in the stomach is proven to be associated with *H. pylori* infection [24]. The primary division of MALT lymphomas depending on the location is shown in **Table 3**.


**7**

*Introductory Chapter: Autoimmune Epithelitis - Discussion about Sjögren's Syndrome…*

**3. Sjögren's syndrome and primary biliary cholangitis as autoimmune** 

**3.1 The treatment of primary Sjögren's syndrome involves a dual approach**

such as fatigue, fever, malaise, or lymphadenopathy [26, 27]

tors, after considering possible contraindications for their use.

sweets and sweet effervescent beverages.

computer screen.

and special contact lenses.

3.Vaginal dryness

*3.1.2 General treatment*

Quitting smoking is strongly recommended.

the reduction of tears or disruption of their composition.

The eyelid therapy: massages and warm compresses.

Topical immunosuppression: steroids and cyclosporine A.

Punctual plugs (temporary or permanent).

The eyelid surgery (e.g., blepharoplasty).

the use of nonfluoride remineralizing agents as concomitant therapy.

• A topical treatment, which aims to protect the epithelial barrier of the eye, oral

• Inhibition of organ changes, as well as the elimination of general symptoms,

**A.** Saliva substitutes: hydroxymethylcellulose-containing oral spray, proper hydration by consuming more liquids, and regularly rinsing the mouth

The stimulation of salivary flow, obtained with the use of pilocarpine or cevimeline, parasympathomimetics, and muscarinic agonists affecting M1 and M3 recep-

Antifungal and antimicrobial treatment with medications such as chlorhexidine;

**A.** The modification of environmental factors, which may increase the dry eye symptoms, such as air condition, exposure to dust, and prolonged work at

When possible, the discontinuation of treatment with medications resulting in

Artificial tears, gels, ointments, special contact lenses, topical autologous serum,

Vaginal dryness treatment is based on the use of intimate moisturizers and sexual lubricants and pH balance stabilizers free from hormones and skin irritants.

In some cases the use of estrogen topical medication may be found useful.

Immunosuppressive drugs such as azathioprine, methotrexate, leflunomide, mycophenolic acid, cyclosporine A (topical, rare oral), and cyclophosphamide effects are used to inhibit general symptoms and organ involvement [26, 27].

Diet modification is recommended: eating slightly acidic products such as lemon, supplementing diet with unsaturated fatty acids (omega-3), and avoiding

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.86258*

cavity, and vagina

*3.1.1 Topical treatment*

1.Oral cavity

2.Dry eye

**epithelitis: general rules for treatment**

#### **Table 3.**

*Division due to the localization of MALT lymphoma [22, 25].*
