Intermediate
Technical
IVT
neutropenia
Pronunciation: new-tro-PEE-nee-ah
Abnormally low level of neutrophils, increasing infection risk in cancer patients.
Full Definition
Neutropenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting bacterial infections. In oncology, neutropenia is a common and serious side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as these treatments can suppress bone marrow function. The condition significantly increases a patient's susceptibility to infections, particularly bacterial infections, and may require treatment delays, dose reductions, or supportive care with growth factors.
Usage
Usage note: Note the spelling with 'eu' not 'u'. Often part of the broader term 'myelosuppression.'
In Context
- "Grade 4 neutropenia required hospitalization and broad-spectrum antibiotics." — Adverse event report
- "Prophylactic growth factor support prevented severe neutropenia in this cycle." — Treatment modification note
Also known as
neutrophil deficiency
Contrasted with
neutrophilia
Don't confuse with
thrombocytopenia
anemia