Neutropenia

What is neutropenia?

Neutropenia is an abnormally low number of white blood cells (neutrophils). White blood cells protect the body from infection.

People with neutropenia tend to develop infections easily because their white blood cell count is too low to fight off germs, such as bacteria. Most of these infections occur in the lungs, mouth, throat, sinuses, and skin. Some people get gum infections, ear infections, or infections of the urinary tract, colon, rectum, or reproductive tract.

How does it occur?

Neutropenia has many possible causes. Some people are born with neutropenia. It can happen during or after a viral infection. In some cases the cause may be the side effect of a drug or exposure to certain poisons. Not having enough vitamin B-12 or folate (folic acid) in your diet can also cause neutropenia. It may result from diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Having chemotherapy for cancer can also cause it.

What are the symptoms?

You may have not symptoms, or you may have symptoms of an infection, which may include:

• fever
• sore throat
• cough or shortness of breath
• diarrhea
• nasal congestion
• unusual vaginal discharge or itching
• burning during urination
• shaking chills
• redness, swelling, or warmth at the site of an injury.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider will do a test called a complete blood count (CBC) to measure white blood cells.

How is it treated?

Treatment for neutropenia depends on the cause and the severity. You may need to:

• Take antibiotics to prevent infections.
• Make changes in your diet or take vitamin supplements.
• Avoid chemicals or medicines that are known to cause neutropenia.

New medicines called colony stimulating factors may also be used to stimulate the growth of neutrophils. These medicines help restore immune system function.

How long do the effects last?

How long neutropenia lasts depends on its cause. For example, neutropenia related to vitamin deficiency usually goes away after 2 weeks of treatment with vitamins. Other causes may take longer to clear up.

How can I help take care of myself?

• Wash your hands often with an antibacterial soap, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.
• Avoid vaginal douches, bubble bath, and bath salts.
• Avoid cuts, scrapes, and burns.
• Use an electric razor instead of a blade.
• Don't squeeze or scratch pimples or sores on your skin.
• Avoid people with colds, flu, or any type of infection or open sores.
• Do not have vaccinations such as flu shots unless your health care provider approves.
• Never use rectal thermometers or suppositories.
• Avoid sunburn.
• Clean the furnace and heating ducts once or twice a year. Replace filters monthly.
• Eat a healthy diet. Make sure your food is completely cooked.
• Avoid constipation and consume plenty of fiber.
• Always use a soft toothbrush. Avoid dental floss.
• Tell your dentist you have neutropenia. You may need to take antibiotics before and after any dental work or cleaning.
• Get plenty of rest.