Neutropenia is the presence of a lower-than-normal level of neutrophils in the blood. Neutrophils are one of the white blood cell types produced in the bone marrow. They play a crucial role in controlling infections, especially bacterial infections, within the body. Neutropenia can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the number of neutrophils present. According to many standards, the acceptable lower limit for adults is 1500 neutrophils per microliter of blood. Neutropenia can be further categorized as acute or chronic, congenital (present from birth), or acquired.

Who is affected by Neutropenia?
Neutropenia can occur in anyone; sometimes, it arises due to an infection, but more commonly, it is a consequence of cancer treatment. It is estimated that about 50% of individuals receiving chemotherapy will develop neutropenia.

Causes of Neutropenia:
Neutropenia occurs when neutrophils are consumed more rapidly than they are produced, or when the bone marrow fails to produce enough neutrophils in the first place. Some common causes include:

• Infections such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, sepsis, or Lyme disease
• Medications, including chemotherapy, which is one of the most common causes of neutropenia
• Cancers and other blood/bone marrow disorders
• Deficiencies in vitamins or minerals like B12, folate, or copper
• Autoimmune diseases such as Crohn’s disease, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis

Symptoms of Neutropenia:
Neutropenia may include the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Pains
• Swelling
• Recurrent infections

Diagnosing Neutropenia:
A commonly performed test is a simple blood test known as a complete blood count (CBC). In some cases, when a specific disease is suspected, your doctor may also test your bone marrow.

Treatments for Neutropenia:
While some types of neutropenia may not require treatment, it is essential to treat febrile neutropenia (neutropenia with fever). Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection. In such cases, you may need to be hospitalized to receive antibiotics intravenously (through a vein) to ensure prompt treatment of the infection.

If neutropenia is caused by medication, your doctor will advise you to stop the medication. If it is caused by an underlying disease, that condition will be treated. In the case of autoimmune disorders, corticosteroids may be prescribed.

Your doctor may also prescribe medications that stimulate the production of white blood cells. These drugs are typically administered by injection and are also known as growth factors or colony-stimulating factors.

Preventing Neutropenia:
Preventing neutropenia is generally not possible, especially when it is congenital. However, for patients undergoing chemotherapy, white blood cell production can be encouraged through growth factor injections, and the dosage or timing of chemotherapy may be adjusted to prevent neutropenia.

How to Prevent Infections if You Have Neutropenia:
If you have neutropenia or are prone to it, you should take precautions to avoid infections. Here are some suggestions:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Carry and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when going out.
• Ensure you receive the recommended flu vaccine early on.
• Avoid crowded places and sick individuals.
• Do not share eating utensils, cups, food, or beverages with others.
• Do not share towels, razors, or toothbrushes with others.
• Wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating them.
• Keep raw meat, fish, and poultry separate from other foods.
• Use hot water and soap to clean kitchen surfaces before starting cooking.
• Cook food thoroughly at the appropriate temperature.
• Use gloves if working with soil.
• Avoid handling pet waste, but if necessary, use gloves and wash your hands afterward.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Take a daily shower and use lotion to prevent dry and cracked skin.
• Maintain a healthy diet.
• Consult your doctor before receiving any dental treatment, as antibiotics may be necessary.
• Refrain from getting piercings or tattoos.
• Avoid swimming in lakes or ponds.
• If possible, avoid constipation.

Neutropenia is a treatable condition, and for most patients, the prognosis is good. Prompt treatment and management of any potential infections are crucial.