| Definition | Decreased absolute neutrophil count (ANC) | Severe decrease or absence of neutrophils in the blood |
| Neutrophil Count | ANC below normal reference range | ANC critically low or near-zero |
| Etiology | Drug-induced, autoimmune disorders, viral infections, bone marrow disorders | Drug-induced (particularly certain medications), autoimmune disorders, bone marrow disorders |
| Severity | Mild to severe | Severe |
| Risk of Infection | Increased susceptibility to bacterial infections | Markedly increased risk of severe bacterial infections |
| Symptoms | Usually asymptomatic or mild symptoms | Symptoms may include fever, severe sore throat, mouth ulcers, infections |
| Diagnostic Criteria | ANC <1,500 cells/mm³ (in adults) | ANC <500 cells/mm³ (in adults) |
| Duration | Can be temporary or chronic | Usually acute and requires immediate attention |
| Treatment | Treatment of underlying cause, management of infection risk (antibiotics, growth factors) | Discontinue causative medications, administration of growth factors, antibiotic therapy, hospitalization |
| Prognosis | Depends on the underlying cause and severity | Guarded to poor, but outcomes vary |
| Monitoring | Regular blood tests to assess ANC and monitor for infections | Frequent blood tests, close monitoring for signs of infection |
| Complications | Increased risk of bacterial infections | Life-threatening infections, sepsis |
| Precautions for Patients | Hand hygiene, infection prevention measures | Strict infection control, avoidance of certain medications |
| Bone Marrow Examination | May show normal or decreased neutrophil precursors | Absence of mature neutrophils in bone marrow |
Biology Ease Staff asked 2 years ago