Neutropenia happens when a child has low levels of a type of white blood cell called a neutrophil. There are many types of white blood cells. Their job is to fight infection. Neutrophils surround and destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. Neutropenia can happen if:
Having slightly lower neutrophil levels may be normal in children of African, Middle Eastern or West Indian descent. This is called “constitutional neutropenia” and rarely needs treatment.
We offer a full range of services to diagnose and treat children with this condition. Our experience helps us know what to watch for and how to prevent and treat problems early. This increases the chances of successful treatment and helps your child feel better. If you would like an appointment, ask your primary care provider to refer you to our Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. If you have a referral or would like a second opinion, contact the center at 206-987-2106. Providers, see how to refer a patient.
Children with low levels of neutrophils may show no symptoms until they start having infections. Fever is a common sign of infection. Other symptoms depend on where the infection is:
Diagnosing NeutropeniaThe doctor may suspect a problem with white blood cells, like neutrophils, if your child gets frequent or uncommon infections (such as an infection in the blood) or has inflamed gums for no clear reason. To diagnose neutropenia, your child’s doctor will take a blood sample to check the levels of each type of blood cell. This is called a complete blood count. Other tests can help us understand why your child has low neutrophils. Depending on your child’s symptoms, doctors may:
The doctor may check your child's blood cell levels from time to time if your child’s treatment for another illness may cause neutropenia. For example, chemotherapy to treat cancer can cause neutropenia. Regularly checking blood cell levels helps find neutropenia early. Doctors may be able to treat it before infections increase.
Neutropenia does not always need treatment. It depends on how severe the condition is and what caused it. Even if doctors cannot pin down the cause, we can help manage the neutropenia to avoid problems. Most often children get neutropenia after fighting off an infection caused by a virus. With time, their bodies will build up their neutrophil level again. Until then, your child will need care for any infection they get. If your child’s neutropenia is caused by a disease of the blood, bone marrow or immune system, we will treat the underlying cause. Read more about our programs to treat bone marrow failure and immune system disorders. Your child’s care plan depends on their illness. We watch your child closely and recommend the best treatment options.
Contact UsIf you would like an appointment, ask your child’s primary care provider to refer you. If you have a referral or would like a second opinion, call the Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at 206-987-2106. Providers, see how to refer a patient. Related Links
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