What autoimmune condition is characterized by dry eyes and dry mouth primarily?

Prepare for the WGU NURS5204 D027 Advanced Pathopharmacological Foundations Exam with comprehensive resources. Practice with flashcards, solve multiple choice questions, and understand detailed explanations to excel in your exam!

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition primarily characterized by the destruction of the exocrine glands, leading to dryness in various mucosal areas, particularly the eyes and mouth. The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the glands that produce moisture, resulting in decreased tear and saliva production. This can lead to symptoms such as dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia), which are hallmark features of the syndrome.

In contrast, other autoimmune conditions listed do not primarily present with these specific symptoms. For example, Hashimoto's thyroiditis primarily affects the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism, while Celiac disease primarily involves the gastrointestinal tract and results from an immune reaction to gluten. Type 1 diabetes, on the other hand, affects insulin production in the pancreas and does not typically cause dry eyes and dry mouth as primary symptoms. Thus, Sjögren's syndrome is correctly identified as the autoimmune condition primarily marked by these symptoms.

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