Neutropenia

Types of Neutropenia

Acute Neutropenia

 Acute neutropenia results from impaired production or rapid destruction of neutrophils in the body. Chemotherapy is a common cause of acute neutropenia, with about 50% of chemotherapy patients developing the condition. However, several other factors can induce acute neutropenia, including viral, bacterial, or fungal infections and substance abuse. 

Chronic Neutropenia

Chronic neutropenia is a medical condition characterized by persistently low levels of neutrophils. Chronic neutropenia can result from congenital conditions, autoimmune disorders, bone marrow disorders, nutritional deficiencies or environmental factors, and various other factors.

Neutropenia Severity

The normal range of neutrophil levels in adults generally falls between 1,500 and 7,000 neutrophil units per microliter of blood, though specific reference ranges vary widely based on individual variables such as age, gender, lifestyle, and health status. The severity of neutropenia is measured based on the relative risk of infection. Neutropenia is categorized as follows: 

• Mild neutropenia: 1000 to 1500/mcL
• Moderate neutropenia: 500 to 1000/mcL
• Severe neutropenia: < 500/mcL

Symptoms vary based on the neutrophil count. Mild cases may be asymptomatic, while moderate to severe neutropenia increases infection risk. In severe cases, even the bacteria normally tolerated by a healthy body, such as the bacteria in the mouth and intestines, can lead to illness.