Global Trends and Insights Into the Neurological Manifestations of Sjögren's Syndrome: A Bibliometric Review

TL;DR

This study reviews global research trends on neurological symptoms in Sjögren's syndrome, highlighting key contributors, geographic patterns, and future research needs.

Contribution

A comprehensive bibliometric analysis of neurological manifestations in Sjögren's syndrome, identifying research trends and future directions.

Findings

Research output on SS neurological symptoms has steadily increased, peaking in 2022 with 122 papers.

Key contributors include the United States, Europe, and rising input from China and Japan.

Future research should focus on prevention, global collaboration, and mechanisms like microvascular dysfunction and immunomodulation.

Abstract

Neurological symptoms in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) present across a spectrum of severity, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This bibliometric review adopts a comprehensive approach to analyze the research landscape related to these symptoms. The data source utilized for this bibliometric review was the Web of Science Core Collection. The study selection encompassed English-language articles and reviews published between January 1, 2006, and June 30, 2023. Data extraction involved a systematic analysis of a total of 910 publications, which included 625 research articles and 285 reviews. The publication trends indicate a steady growth in research output, peaking with 122 papers in 2022. Geographic contributions primarily originate from the United States, followed by robust European contributions and increasing input from Asian countries, particularly China and Japan. Influential researchers such as Smith JM from Johns Hopkins University, Brown L from Harvard University, and Wang Q from Peking University have significantly shaped this field. Key institutions driving substantial publication volume and citation impact include Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, and the University of Tokyo. Furthermore, journals such as Neurology, Journal of Autoimmunity, and Clinical Rheumatology play pivotal roles in disseminating advancements in SS-related neurological research. Future research priorities should focus on primary prevention, emphasizing the need for global cooperation and collaboration in neurological SS workup. There is a call for encouraging interdisciplinary, internationally focused investigative efforts specifically targeting SS neurologists. Key focus areas include potential preventive therapies aimed at significant neural dysfunctions (e.g., sensory neuropathy), mechanisms of microvascular dysfunction, and cognitive profiles/immunomodulation against autoantibodies. This analysis underscores the continued necessity for further research to optimize diagnosis and treatment in cases involving the complexities of neurological involvement with SS.

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