Felty syndrome with liver cirrhosis: A case report.

RATIONALE: Felty syndrome (FS) is a rare type of rheumatoid arthritis, and its combined occurrence with liver cirrhosis was rarely reported. FS was easily misdiagnosed as autoimmune cirrhosis or myelodysplastic syndrome, which led to improper medication and serious consequences.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A 72-year-old male patient was admitted to Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine due to recurrent fatigue associated with a cough. Imaging suggested liver cirrhosis and splenomegaly, according to imaging diagnosis, laboratory tests, ultrasound, magnetic resonance, and history of rheumatoid arthritis, we considered the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis due to FS. Immunomodulatory and anti-liver fibrosis therapy was carried out, combined with Chinese patent medicines, and the patient's condition was stable in the future years.

DIAGNOSES: FS, liver cirrhosis, and chronic renal insufficiency.

INTERVENTIONS: Routine immunomodulation, liver protection, and anti-liver fibrosis treatment, moreover Traditional Chinese Medicine was used to protect the liver and promote bile excretion, and regulate immunity.

OUTCOMES: The patient's symptoms improved and his subsequent condition stabilized.

LESSONS: Physicians should have a better understanding of FS and know that it can lead to liver cirrhosis, to avoid misdiagnosis and poor response to glucocorticoids, delay the disease, and increase the burden on patients.