Etymed
neutropenia
Definition
A condition characterized by an abnormally low number of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) in the blood, leading to increased susceptibility to infections
Clinical context
A 65-year-old patient with acute myeloid leukemia presents with fever and chills. Laboratory studies reveal a white blood cell count of 800/µL with 5% neutrophils. The patient is at high risk for severe bacterial infections due to severe neutropenia.
Mnemonic
NICE - Neutrophils Infection Cause Emergency