Felty's syndrome is a disorder characterized by rheumatoid arthritis, an enlarged spleen, a decreased white blood cell count, and recurrent infection.

The cause of Felty’s syndrome is unknown. It is a variant of rheumatoid arthritis and is more common in people who have had rheumatoid arthritis for a long time. People with this syndrome suffer from an increased incidence of infection associated with a low white blood cell count.

• General feeling of discomfort (malaise)
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Unintentional weight loss
• Pale-looking skin
• Joint swelling, stiffness, pain, and deformity
• Recurrent infections
• Eye burning or discharge

A physical examination shows an enlarged spleen, and may also show an enlarged liver or enlarged lymph nodes. Joint findings are typical of rheumatoid arthritis.

A CBC (complete blood count) may show decreased neutrophil count.

People with this syndrome are usually already under treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Patients may need additional medications to suppress their immune system.

Splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may improve the white cell count and the susceptibility to infections.

Progression of rheumatoid arthritis is likely. Some people benefit from splenectomy.

Recurrent infections may develop.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop.

There is no known prevention for Felty's syndrome.

Harris ED, Budd RC, Genovese MC, Firestein GS, Sargent JS, Sledge CB. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology. 7th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2005:1101-1103.

Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 7th Ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders; 2002:1615-1616.