Secretory process: the role of age, autoimmunity and endocrinopathy

Xerostomia is a common occurrence in older people, impairing their quality of life. When salivary gland function goes below 50%, patients show oral mucosal dryness and consequent problems on speaking and eating. They present oral health impairment. Their quality of life is compromised too. The prevalence of xerostomia is reported to be approximately 30% in people over 65 years old. Drug-induced xerostomia is the most common cause of dry mouth in elderly, because many older adults are taking at least one medication that causes salivary dysfunction. Among the autoimmune disease that can cause xerostomia, Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is the most representative one in elderly. Dryness of oral mucosa…