Neutropenia is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell essential for fighting infections, especially those caused by bacteria and fungi.
What Are Neutrophils?
Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cells in the body and a crucial part of the innate immune system. They are the first responders to infection and help destroy pathogens through processes like phagocytosis.
Causes of Neutropenia:
- Chemotherapy (e.g., gemcitabine) – one of the most common causes in cancer patients
- Radiation therapy
- Certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, antipsychotics)
- Bone marrow disorders (e.g., leukemia, aplastic anemia)
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus)
- Severe infections (which can temporarily deplete neutrophils)
- Congenital disorders (e.g., Kostmann syndrome)
Severity Levels:
Measured by absolute neutrophil count (ANC):
- Normal ANC: 1500–8000 cells/μL
- Mild neutropenia: 1000–1500 cells/μL
- Moderate neutropenia: 500–1000 cells/μL
- Severe neutropenia: <500 cells/μL (high risk of serious infections)
Symptoms:
Neutropenia itself doesn’t usually cause symptoms, but it greatly increases the risk of infections. Signs of infection may include: Fever, Chills, Sore throat, Mouth ulcers, Fatigue
Management:
- Antibiotics or antifungals to treat or prevent infections
- Growth factors like G-CSF (e.g., filgrastim/Neupogen) to stimulate white blood cell production
- Adjusting or delaying chemotherapy doses
- Protective isolation or hygiene measures in severe cases