Leukopenia

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Leukopenia
File:Blausen 0909 WhiteBloodCells.png
Synonyms Leucopenia, leukocytopenia
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Often none; increased risk of infection
Complications Infection, sepsis
Onset Can be sudden or gradual
Duration Varies depending on cause
Types N/A
Causes Bone marrow suppression, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, aplastic anemia, HIV/AIDS, lupus
Risks Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, autoimmune diseases, HIV/AIDS
Diagnosis Complete blood count (CBC)
Differential diagnosis Anemia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia
Prevention Avoiding known risk factors, prophylactic antibiotics in high-risk patients
Treatment Depends on underlying cause; may include growth factors, antibiotics, antivirals, immunosuppressants
Medication N/A
Prognosis Varies; depends on underlying cause and response to treatment
Frequency Common in patients undergoing chemotherapy or with autoimmune disorders
Deaths N/A


Leukopenia is a decrease in the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) found in the blood, which places individuals at increased risk of infection.

Causes[edit]

Leukopenia can be caused by various conditions and diseases. Some of the most common causes include:

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of leukopenia can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, common symptoms include:

  • Frequent infections
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Skin rashes

Diagnosis[edit]

Leukopenia is typically diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures the number of each type of cell in the blood. If leukopenia is detected, further tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for leukopenia typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve changing medications, treating infections, or providing supportive care to help the body produce more white blood cells.

See also[edit]