It is a variant of rheumatoid arthritis and is 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 the low white blood cell count .
Prevention is unknown.
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 may show decreased neutrophil count. Progression of rheumatoid arthritis is likely. Some people benefit from splenectomy .