Leukopenia Treated by Mercy’s Expert Hematologists

Leukopenia, also known as leukocytopenia or leucopenia, is a low white blood cell count that directly influences the immune system and its ability to fight against infections within the blood stream. A white blood cell count lower than 4,000 cells per microliter of blood is considered a low count.

What causes Leukopenia?

White blood cells are produced in bone marrow. Diseases that interfere with the function of bone marrow can cause the development of leukopenia. Conditions and medical treatments that can cause leukopenia include:

• Anemia
• Autoimmune disorders
• Viral infections
• Cancer
• Chemotherapy
• Congenital disorders
• Diet
• HIV/AIDS
• Hyperthyroidism
• Radiation therapy
• Kostmann’s syndrome
• Leukemia
• Lupus
• Medications (antibiotics and diuretics)
• Myelodysplastic syndrome
• Parasitic diseases
• Vitamin deficiencies

The most common signs and symptoms of leukopenia include anemia, fatigue, headaches and mood swings. With the immune system highly compromised, inflammation of the mouth as well as inflammation of the stomach may occur. Women with leucopenia may also experience abnormally heavy periods.

Your medical oncologist at Mercy will order a variety of tests to diagnose leukopenia. The tests may include:

• Blood test (CBC)
• Blood cultures
• Bone marrow biopsy
• Cytometry blood test

Leukopenia treatment options are focused on energizing the bone marrow to help produce new white blood cells. Treatment options include steroids, chemotherapy and multivitamins. If the patient is experiencing any infectious diseases, medication may also be given to treat the specific infection.