Neurological Manifestations of Sjögren Syndrome: A Bibliometric Visualization of an Underrecognized Diagnostic Challenge in Acute Care
Sricharan R. Tharigonda, Ethan Nichols, Sreeja NatesanIntroduction
Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of exocrine glands, most commonly the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to sicca symptoms. In addition to glandular involvement, Sjögren’s syndrome may present with systemic manifestations, including neurological complications affecting both the peripheral and central nervous systems.
Method
A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection database to evaluate research trends related to the neurological manifestations of Sjögren’s syndrome. Publications from 1990 to 2025 were retrieved and analyzed using VOSviewer (version 1.6.20). Bibliometric indicators assessing publication output, citation patterns, keyword co-occurrence, and contributions by country and institution were evaluated.
Results
A total of 1,353 publications were identified. Publication output demonstrated a steady increase over time, peaking in 2022 with 85 publications. The United States, France, and Italy were the leading contributors, with 283, 130, and 112 publications, respectively. The University of Athens and Johns Hopkins University were the most productive institutions, each contributing 25 publications. Keyword analysis revealed peripheral neuropathy as the most frequently studied neurological manifestation, followed by cognitive dysfunction and central nervous system involvement.
Conclusion
Research on the neurological manifestations of Sjögren’s syndrome has increased substantially over recent decades, reflecting growing recognition of its clinical complexity. Despite this progress, gaps remain, particularly in understanding central nervous system involvement and in the development of effective targeted therapies. This highlights the need for continued multidisciplinary and international research efforts.