Objectives To determine the usefulness of different ophtalmological tests as predictive tools in the diagnosis of Secondary Sjögren Syndrome (SSS) in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Methods 123 patients with RA were included in a transversal study. Xerophtalmia was assessed in 116 patients by Schirmer’s test. Moreover, determination of tear film break-up (BUT) and Rose Bengal staining (Bijsterveld grading scale) were performed in 92 patients. Sicca symptoms, unstimulated salivary flow measurement, and testing for rheumatoid factor and antinuclear, anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies were also collected. Minor salivary gland biopsies were performed in 66 patients and graded according to Chisholm-Mason grading system. Statistical analysis was performed to determine sensitivity and specificity of each of the ophtalmological tests in the diagnosis of SSS by EEC criteria.

Results Prevalence of SSS was 39.7% according to EEC criteria, and 20.3% according to modified EEC criteria. Sensitivity and specificity statistical studies showed the following results:

Conclusion Among ophtalmological tests used to assess xerophtalmia, a positive Schirmer’s test is the best predictor of the occurrence of SSS in patients with RA.