Neutropenia is a medical condition characterized by lower-than-normal levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in the blood. Neutrophils play a crucial role in fighting infections in the body by destroying germs that cause infections, like viruses and bacteria. Neutropenia is especially common among people receiving cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, as these treatments may destroy healthy neutrophils and the bone marrow that makes them.
Symptoms of neutropenia include fever, chills, sweating, sore throat, sores in the mouth, abdominal pain, pain near the anus, pain or burning when urinating, diarrhea, cough, shortness of breath, and any redness, swelling, or pain (especially around a cut, wound, or catheter) . Infections can occur as a complication of neutropenia, and they occur most often in the mucous membranes, such as the inside of the mouth and the skin. These infections can appear as ulcers, abscesses (collections of pus), rashes, or wounds that take a long time to heal.
Causes of neutropenia include cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and certain medications such as antibiotics, blood pressure drugs, and psychiatric drugs. Neutropenia can also be caused by certain diseases, including cancer, and certain treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In some cases, neutropenia may not have a clear cause, and this is known as chronic idiopathic neutropenia.
If you have neutropenia, it’s important to take extra precautions to avoid germs that may make you sick. Treatment for neutropenia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, doctors may recommend antibiotics during longer periods of neutropenia to prevent infections. In severe cases, doctors may give medications ...
