Which disease commonly presents with symptoms of dry eyes and dry mouth?

Prepare for the ITE Board General Internal Medicine test. Utilize structured study resources, flashcards, and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to ensure exam success!

Sjögren's syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized primarily by its hallmark symptoms of dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia). This condition occurs due to the immune system attacking the exocrine glands, which are responsible for producing tears and saliva. As a result, individuals with Sjögren's syndrome often experience significant discomfort from reduced moisture in these areas, leading to various complications, such as dental issues and eye irritation.

The other diseases listed may have overlapping symptoms or involve dry eyes and dry mouth to some extent, but they do not primarily present with these symptoms as defining characteristics. For example, rheumatoid arthritis may involve joint pain and stiffness but is not primarily associated with dryness unless there is a secondary Sjögren's syndrome. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a broader autoimmune condition that can involve multiple systems and has various manifestations, while Hashimoto's thyroiditis primarily affects thyroid function and does not typically lead to the same distinct symptoms of dryness seen in Sjögren's. Therefore, the distinct combination of dry eyes and dry mouth makes Sjögren's syndrome the correct answer in this context.

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