Neutropenia refers to a condition in which the number of white blood cells (immune system cells) called neutrophils in the body is lower than normal. Neutrophils play an important role in the defense mechanism against bacteria and other pathogens. A decrease in the number of these cells can lead to a weakened immune system and vulnerability to infections.
Neutropenic patients usually need to take special precautions to prevent infections and should be monitored regularly. Treatment can vary depending on the causes, but usually includes antibiotics and other supportive measures to prevent and treat infections. The course of treatment may vary depending on the underlying cause and the patient's general health. Neutropenia should be assessed and managed by a healthcare professional.
What Causes Neutropenia?
Neutropenia can occur for many different reasons. Here are some common causes that can lead to neutropenia:
Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs and radiotherapy used to treat cancer can affect bone marrow cells by acting on rapidly dividing cells and cause neutropenia.
Medicines: Some medicines can cause neutropenia by affecting cells of the immune system. These include antibiotics, antipsychotics, antiviral drugs and some anti-inflammatory drugs.
Bone Marrow Disorders: Bone marrow is where blood cells are produced. Bone marrow disorders can cause neutropenia. Examples include aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes and leukemia.
Immune System Diseases: Some autoimmune diseases can cause the body to attack its own cells, which can lead to neutropenia.
Infections: Some infections can cause neutropenia by causing neutrophils to be destroyed or affected.
Genetic Factors: In rare cases, genetic factors can cause conditions such as Kostmann syndrome, a form of congenital neutropenia.
Radiation Exposure: Exposure to high levels of radiation can affect the bone marrow and cause neutropenia.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially vitamin B12, folic acid and copper deficiencies, can contribute to neutropenia.
What are the Symptoms of Neutropenia?
Neutropenia is a condition in which the body has low levels of white blood cells called neutrophils. This is associated with reduced resistance to infections. Symptoms of neutropenia are usually caused by infections and can manifest as
Fever: The body often reacts with fever in response to infections. In neutropenic individuals, fever can be a symptom of infection in the body.
Fatigue: People with neutropenia can often feel tired as they use up their body's energy to fight infections.
Mouth and Throat Problems: People with neutropenia may experience mouth and throat problems such as mouth ulcers, gum problems and sore throat.
Skin Problems: Itching, redness, rashes or other skin infections can be among the symptoms of neutropenia.
Respiratory Problems: Neutropenic individuals may be more susceptible to respiratory infections, which can lead to coughing, shortness of breath or other breathing problems.
Urinary Tract Infections: Neutropenia may be associated with a greater susceptibility to urinary tract infections, which can cause frequent urination, burning sensation or other urinary tract symptoms.
How is Neutropenia Diagnosed?
Neutropenia is usually diagnosed by a healthcare professional through a thorough evaluation and laboratory tests. Here are some methods used to diagnose neutropenia:
Blood Count (Differential by CBC): This test measures the number of white blood cells (including neutrophils) in the blood. An important indicator for the diagnosis of neutropenia is a neutrophil count below normal.
Bone Marrow Biopsy and Aspiration: This test involves taking a sample of bone marrow and examining it. It can be done to determine the underlying cause of neutropenia and to assess cell production in the bone marrow.
Evaluation for Signs of Infection: Neutropenic individuals are at high risk of infection. Therefore, signs and symptoms of infection are assessed. Fever, mouth ulcers, sore throat and other symptoms are considered.
Investigation of the Underlying Cause: There are many different causes that can lead to neutropenia. The health professional tries to identify potential causes by taking a patient history and performing a physical examination.
Genetic Testing: In rare cases, genetic testing may be needed in cases of neutropenia due to inborn genetic causes.
Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to identify bone marrow diseases or other problems.
How is Neutropenia Treated?
Treatment of neutropenia can vary depending on the underlying causes and severity of neutropenia. Treatment is usually determined and individualized by a healthcare professional. Here are some common approaches used to treat neutropenia:
Treating the Underlying Cause: It is important to identify and treat the underlying cause of neutropenia. For example, in the case of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, adjustments can be made in accordance with the cancer treatment plan.
Drug Therapy: Antibiotics or antifungal drugs can be used to reduce or treat the risk of infection. These medicines can help prevent infections in neutropenic individuals.
Immunoglobulin Therapy in Some Conditions: Immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusions may be used for neutropenia caused by immune system problems. IVIG supports the immune system by providing the body with additional immunoglobulins.
Bone Marrow Transplant: In cases of severe and recurrent neutropenia, a bone marrow transplant may be considered. This is a treatment option to correct neutropenia by transplanting healthy bone marrow cells.
Infection Prevention Measures: Neutropenic individuals should take special precautions to reduce the risk of infection. Measures such as cleanliness, hygiene, use of masks and avoiding crowded environments are important in this context.
Blood and Blood Products: In some cases, blood products such as blood transfusions or neutrophil-supporting factors may be used.
Nutrition Support: Vitamin and mineral supplements or special nutrition programs may be considered to address nutritional deficiencies.
How to Prevent Neutropenia?
Neutropenia usually occurs as a result of an underlying health condition or treatment. Therefore, strategies to prevent neutropenia may vary depending on the underlying causes and the person's overall health status. However, in general, the following measures can reduce the risk of neutropenia:
Balanced Nutrition: A healthy diet supports the body's immune system and can reduce the risk of neutropenia. Vitamin and mineral adequacy is important in this respect.
Compliance with Hygiene Rules: Hygienic measures such as hand washing, following cleanliness rules and avoiding infections can reduce the risk of infection in neutropenic individuals.
Infection Control: It is important to take infection control measures such as avoiding crowded places, avoiding contact with sick people, and using masks.
Vaccinations: Appropriate vaccines can provide protection against infections by strengthening the individual's immune system. However, live vaccines should not be used in immunocompromised individuals.
Medication Caution: Medications that may cause neutropenia should be avoided or used under the supervision of a doctor. Drugs that increase the risk of neutropenia, such as chemotherapy or other drugs that suppress the immune system, require special attention.
Regular Monitoring: People receiving treatment should be monitored regularly by health professionals. Neutropenia levels should be checked with blood tests and other assessments.
Good Cancer Treatment Management: Neutropenia is common in people receiving cancer treatment. In this case, the cancer treatment plan should be carefully managed to minimize the risk of neutropenia.
Stress Management: Stress can affect the immune system. Practicing strategies to cope with stress can help strengthen the immune system.