Prognosis

FS has a poorer prognosis than uncomplicated rheumatoid arthritis (RA). FS patients have increased morbidity and mortality from infections and malignancy. Five-year mortality has been estimated to be between 25% and 36%, with infection being the main cause of death.[2][3] In addition, as with all patients with RA, patients with FS also have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The degree of neutropenia in FS varies with time, and spontaneous remission of neutropenia can occur in up to 40% of patients without specific treatment.[31] However, these patients remain at increased risk of infection despite normal neutrophil counts.[2]

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