Leukopenia Treated by Mercy’s Expert Hematologists
The medical oncologists and hematology specialists at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland work closely with patients and their families to help them understand and manage blood disorders, including leukopenia.
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