Medicines for Neutropenia

What it is

Neutropenia means having a low level of neutrophils, the most common type of white blood cell and a key part of the body's defence against bacterial and fungal infections. When neutrophils are low, the body is less able to fight off infections, so infections can develop more easily and become more serious. The degree of risk depends on how low the count is. There are many causes, including chemotherapy and some other medicines (a common cause), viral infections, autoimmune conditions, problems with the bone marrow (where blood cells are made), vitamin deficiencies, and, in some people, a mild low count that is normal for them or their ethnic background (which is harmless). It is found on a blood test. The most important practical point is that, in someone with significant neutropenia, a fever can signal a serious infection that needs urgent treatment.

How it is treated

Management depends on the cause and severity. Mild neutropenia that is not causing problems, or that is a normal variation, may simply be monitored. Where there is an underlying cause — such as a medicine, deficiency, infection or bone marrow condition — this is addressed. For people at higher risk (for example during chemotherapy), preventive measures reduce infection risk, and in some cases medicines that stimulate neutrophil production are used. The crucial message, particularly for people having chemotherapy or with known significant neutropenia, is that a fever or feeling unwell must be treated as a potential emergency (neutropenic sepsis): they should seek urgent medical help immediately, as prompt antibiotics can be life-saving. Patients at risk are given clear advice and a contact number for this. Care is guided by the cause and the level of risk.