White Blood Cell Disorders
Overview
Neutropenia is a condition where your body has a lower-than-normal number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections, particularly bacterial and fungal ones. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in your blood to defend your body from harmful microorganisms.
How is neutropenia categorized
The severity of neutropenia depends on the absolute neutrophil count (ANC):
Mild: 1000–1500 neutrophils per microliter of blood.
Moderate: 500–999 neutrophils per microliter.
Severe: Fewer than 500 neutrophils per microliter. At this level, the risk of severe infections is very high.
What causes neutropenia
- Infections, mostly viral infections (like the common cold, flu, or chickenpox), that usually suppress the bone marrow temporarily.
- Medications, like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, certain antibiotics, anti-seizure drugs, psychotropic drugs and others.
- Immune system diseases, like autoimmune neutropenia and alloimmune neonatal neutropenia.
- Nutritional deficiencies, like vitamin B12, folic acid and copper deficiencies.
- Genetic disorders that can cause lifelong neutropenia.
- Bone marrow disorders, like Leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes and other cancers that infiltrate the bone marrow.
Common signs and symptoms
- Frequent infections (skin, mouth, throat, lungs, or urinary tract)
- Fever
- Mouth sores or gum inflammation
- Fatigue and weakness due to recurring illnesses
- Slow wound healing
The Journey of Healing Starts Here
If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of White Blood Cell Disorders, our expert hematology team is here to help. We provide comprehensive diagnostic services, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support to ensure the best outcomes.
Diagnosis
- Complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell levels and types.
- Specialized tests, like antibody tests for autoimmune neutropenia and genetic testing for inherited neutropenia syndromes.
- Bone marrow biopsy to determine the presence of abnormal cells or conditions affecting blood cell production.
Treatment
Careful monitoring in mild and transient cases.
Antibiotics and antifungals to prevent or treat infections.
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor to stimulate the bone marrow to produce more neutrophils.
Immunosuppressive drugs in autoimmune neutropenia.
Treat deficiencies in vitamin B12, folic acid, or copper.
Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) for severe genetic conditions or cases where the bone marrow fails permanently.