Dry eye disease can also manifest as a result of systemic disease.

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder which affects the entire body, but initially include typical symptoms of dry eyes and dry mouth. Ninety percent of those diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome are female. It sometimes occurs in the presence of Lupus, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Patients with Sjogren's syndrome and other systemic diseases should consider care with a rheumatologist for long term treatment.