FELTY_S SYNDROME

FELTY’S SYNDROME

Felty’s syndrome, also known as a super rheumatoid disease, is a severe type of rheumatoid arthritis. It is a rare and severe disorder. It is often characterized by enlargement of spleen, rheumatoid arthritis, and a few neutrophils in the blood. This condition is common among those who are aged 50 to 70 years old. It is a disease that causes a lot of complications.

The leading cause of Felty’s syndrome is unknown, but it is shared with people who have rheumatoid arthritis. People with this syndrome are more at risk for infection due to the low amounts of white blood cells. Felty’s syndrome is believed to be a genetic condition. It’s possible that the individual affected needs one abnormal gene to develop a disease. Some say that Felty’s syndrome can be an autoimmune disorder. It is more familiar with people who have long-term rheumatoid arthritis.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of Felty’s syndrome are more likely with those who have rheumatoid arthritis. They may suffer from painful, swollen joints in the bones of arms, hands, and feet. Symptoms of Felty’s syndrome include an abnormal enlargement of the spleen and abnormal amounts of white blood cells, along with the following:

  • Fatigue
  • Serious infection
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Discolored patches of the skin
  • Eye discharge
  • Joint pain, swelling, deformities, and stiffness
  • General discomfort
  • A feeling of burning in the eye
  • Loss of appetite

Sometimes people who have Felty’s syndrome don’t know  that they have it because they may have no symptoms. Other times, they may have symptoms of the syndrome. The symptoms may vary depending on the case of the person. Others can have all the symptoms, but some can only have a few signs of Felty’s syndrome. So, it is essential to seek medical help if you have symptoms.

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose Felty’s syndrome, your doctor will start with a physical examination. This can determine whether you have a swollen spleen, liver, and lymph nodes. There may also be redness and swelling of the joints. Your doctor may also request for an abdominal ultrasound and blood tests, including CBC. This can determine if your white blood cell is low or not. The abdominal ultrasound may determine if your spleen is swollen or not. Having a swollen spleen, minimal white blood cells, and rheumatoid arthritis can indicate Felty’s syndrome.

 

TREATMENT

Most of the people who are diagnosed with this are already treated for rheumatoid arthritis. This condition may require a certain amount of medication. During the treatment, a doctor may prescribe methotrexate, which is an effective treatment for the symptoms you may experience. Others may benefit from removing their spleen surgically. If you are experiencing recurrent infections, you may tell your doctor, or you may do the following to help reduce your risk for infections.

  • Try to avoid injuries
  • Avoid crowded places especially during flu season
  • Wash your hands frequently
  • Get a flu shot yearly

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