More like "Show-grens" here. The correct Swedish pronunciation is well
beyond me :) And if you're being fussy, the 'o' needs to have two dots
above it.

Sjögren's ("SHOW-grins") syndrome is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune
diseases are characterized by the abnormal production of extra antibodies in
the blood that are directed against various tissues of the body. This
particular autoimmune illness features inflammation in certain glands of the
body. Inflammation of the glands that produce tears (lacrimal glands) leads
to decreased water production for tears and eye dryness. Inflammation of the
glands that produce the saliva in the mouth (salivary glands, including the
parotid glands) leads to mouth dryness.

Sjögren's syndrome with gland inflammation (resulting dry eyes and mouth,
etc.) that is not associated with another connective tissue disease is
referred to as primary Sjögren's syndrome. Sjögren's syndrome that is also
associated with a connective tissue disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis,
systemic lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma, is referred to as secondary
Sjögren's syndrome.

While the exact cause of Sjögren's syndrome is not known, there is growing
scientific support for genetic (inherited) factors. The illness is sometimes
found in other family members. It is also found more commonly in families
that have members with other autoimmune illnesses, such as systemic lupus
erythematosus, autoimmune thyroid disease, juvenile diabetes, etc. 90% of
patients with  Sjögren's syndrome are female.   www.medicinenet.com

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is also an autoimmune disease.

HTH
Nicole