Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
febrile neutropenia
Also written as: FN — febrile neutropenia
Life-threatening condition combining fever with dangerously low white blood cell counts in cancer patients.
Full Definition
Febrile neutropenia is a medical emergency characterized by fever (typically >38°C) in patients with severe neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count <500 cells/μL). This condition is common in pediatric oncology patients receiving chemotherapy, as the low white blood cell count severely compromises the immune system's ability to fight infections. Prompt recognition and treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics are essential to prevent sepsis and death.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate febrile-neutropenia when used as a compound modifier. May be abbreviated as FN.
In Context
- "The patient developed febrile neutropenia on day 7 of the chemotherapy cycle and was admitted for IV antibiotics." — Oncology progress note
- "Parents should be educated about signs of febrile neutropenia and when to seek immediate medical care." — Patient discharge instruction
Also known as
neutropenic fever
Don't confuse with
neutropenic enterocolitis