Related Terms

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Background

• Neutropenia is defined as a low number of neutrophil granulocytes, a type of white blood cell, in the body. White blood cells serve as the body's primary defense mechanism against infection and disease. In a healthy body, neutrophils make up 50-60% of circulating white blood cells. Neutropenic patients have an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) that is lower than 1,500 cells per microliter of blood.
• Therefore, patients with neutropenia are more susceptible to disease and infection. Severe cases of neutropenia may even become life threatening.
• Mild neutropenia usually causes no symptoms. Severe neutropenia increases the risk of infection, especially in the lungs, kidneys, blood, and/or skin.
• Neutropenia can be acute (lasting less than three months) or chronic (lasting longer than three months). The condition occurs when the bone marrow does not produce enough neutrophils or an increased number of neutrophils are destroyed in the body. For instance, neutropenia is a common side effect of chemotherapy.
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Classification

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Types

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Causes

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Symptoms

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Integrative Therapies

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Prevention

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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