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This is a condition of an abnormally low number of a particular type of white blood cell, called a neutrophil. Neutrophils kill and eat microorganisms that invade our bodies. Neutropenia occurs when the neutrophil count is less than 2000.
Neutropenia is most often found in African-Americans, young children, and Yemenite Jews. Causes can include:
- Decreased production of white blood cells
- Destruction post-production of white blood cells
- Pooling of white blood cells
Symptoms associated with neutropenia can include:
- Drug toxicity
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Blood diseases
- Viral diseases
- Tuberculosis
- Bone marrow abnormalities
- Medications that stimulate an attack on white blood cells
- As a response to overwhelming infection
- Hemodialysis
Symptoms experienced depend on the level of neutrophils in the blood. Infections associated with neutropenia can include:
- Tonsillitis
- Ear infections
- Sore throat
- Mouth ulcers
- Gum infection
- Skin abscesses
- A fever over 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit
If symptoms persist, see your family physician. It neutropenia is diagnosed, your physician may start a round of medications, or antibiotics to build up your neutrophil count.
Source: Centers for Disease Control
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