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NEUTROPENIA


And you thought you were done with pimples

Neutropenia is too few infection-fighting white blood cells (WBC), called neutrophils, in the body.  
(Pronounced NOO-troh-PEE-nee-ah)

The white blood cells (WBCs) are responsible for fighting infection. When they are affected by chemotherapy, you may be at increased risk of infection. Your doctor will monitor your WBCs by checking your complete blood count (CBC) throughout treatment.

When neutropenia occurs:

Neutropenia usually develops 7 to 10 days after treatment begins. You will be at increased risk of infection any time your WBC is less than 3000. 

IT IS IMPORTANT TO REPORT ANY SIGNS OF INFECTION TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY, INCLUDING:
  • A fever of 100.5 or higher.
  • Sweating and chills.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • A sore throat and/or white patches in the mouth.
  • Frequent, loose bowel movements.
  • Frequency and/or burning with urination.

What Your Doctor May Do:

Your doctor may give you a drug to stimulate white blood cell production called Neupogen or Neulasta. 

TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE YOU

  • Get a “live” vaccination.
  • Go to the dentist.
  • Take any over-the-counter medicine, vitamins, or herbal supplements.

TAKE THESE MEASURES TO PREVENT INFECTION: 

  • Wash your hands often. Use a lotion to keep your hands from getting dry.
  • Avoid large crowds of people. Avoid anyone that may have an infection .
  • While it’s OK to be close to your pets, do let someone else clean the cat box, fish tank or birdcage.
  • Avoid hot tubs or Jacuzzis.
  • Avoid enemas, suppositories, tampons, vaginal douches, and sexual intercourse.
  • Avoid standing water, such as water in vases, humidifiers, and soap dishes?
  • Avoid salad bars and raw seafood like sushi.
  • Make certain that you wash and peel fresh fruit and vegetables. If they cannot be peeled, then they should be cooked.
  • Toothbrush bristles must be SOFT. Rinse your mouth three times a day with a solution of 1-teaspoon baking soda or ¼-tsp salt to 1-cup warm water. Do not use commercial mouthwashes. If you have chapped lips, use non-petroleum based products only.
  • Always tell your doctor before going to the dentist.
  • If you have school-age children, ask the school office staff to let you know about any chickenpox outbreaks or exposure at school? Let your doctor know immediately if anyone in your house is exposed to chickenpox.
  • If you know someone who has recently had a “live vaccine,” avoid contact with that person.

This page was last edited on 01/09/2004
Written by Rachael Myers Lowe, cancerpage.com
 Clinical review by Deborah Gomer, BSN, RN, OCN

Disclaimer - The medical information on this website is presented as an educational resource and should not take the place of advice and recommendations of your personal physician. This information may help you to communicate with the physician and other health care professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of your disease. Support groups and cancer organizations also can be an important source of assistance and support for cancer patients, their families, and their friends.
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