Subclavian steal syndrome associated with Sjogren's syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND Subclavian steal syndrome (SSS) caused by Sjogren's syndrome is rare, especially for elderly patients with risk factors for atherosclerosis. The current report presents the uncommon etiology and treatment of SSS, aiming to improve doctor's clinical experience. CASE SUMMARY A 69-year-old man was diagnosed with hypertension and acute cerebral infarction presenting with left upper limb weakness and pain even gradually aggravating to left limb hemiplegia 30 years ago. He was managed with antihypertensive and antithrombotic therapy; however, his condition was recurrent, and he never had any further examination. It was found that the difference of the bilateral upper arm systolic pressure was over 20 mmHg, and Doppler examination showed that the blood flow of the left vertebral artery was reversed, suggesting SSS. Further tests revealed a benign lymphoepithelial lesion in salivary gland tissue, confirming the Sjogren's syndrome. CONCLUSION The patient was found to have hypertension when he was 33 years old, and the blood pressure of both sides was asymmetric, which was ignored. The patient's symptoms of dizziness and upper limb weakness were misdiagnosed as general cerebral infarction. It is necessary to test the aorta computed tomography angiography to prove secondary hypertension factors such as Sjogren's syndrome.

Automated summary

This case report highlights the rare occurrence of subclavian steal syndrome caused by Sjogren's syndrome in an elderly patient and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, especially in cases with hypertension. It also underscores the significance of considering uncommon etiologies for common symptoms like dizziness and limb weakness.