pancytopenia
Pronunciation: pan-cy-to-PEE-nee-ah
A hematologic condition characterized by reduction in all three major blood cell lines: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Full Definition
Pancytopenia represents a simultaneous decrease in red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (leukopenia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia). In hematologic oncology, pancytopenia may result from bone marrow failure syndromes, malignant infiltration of bone marrow, chemotherapy or radiation-induced myelosuppression, or hypersplenism. The condition predisposes patients to the combined risks of anemia (fatigue, dyspnea), infection (due to neutropenia), and bleeding (due to thrombocytopenia). Evaluation requires bone marrow examination to determine the underlying etiology and guide appropriate treatment strategies.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from isolated cytopenias affecting single cell lines. May be secondary to various underlying conditions requiring specific evaluation.
In Context
- "Bone marrow biopsy was performed to evaluate the cause of the patient's pancytopenia." — Diagnostic workup
- "The patient's pancytopenia improved gradually following supportive care and growth factor administration." — Treatment response