Neutropenia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 30, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Neutropenia

is a condition that causes a low number of neutrophils in your blood. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell made in the bone marrow. Neutrophils remove bacteria, viruses, and fungi to protect you from infections.

Signs and symptoms of neutropenia:

You may have no signs or symptoms. Signs or symptoms may appear suddenly or develop gradually over hours or days. You may have any of the following:

• Fever or chills
• Bruises, splotchy red spots, or sores on your skin
• Mouth sores
• A sinus infection
• Anal or rectal sores
• A fast heartbeat
• A sore throat, cough, or wheezing

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have trouble breathing.
• Your heart is beating faster than usual.
• You are confused and notice changes in the way you think.

Related medications

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Neupogen
• filgrastim
• Zarxio
• Nivestym
• Releuko

View more treatment options

Call your doctor if:

• You have fever or chills.
• You have a new cough.
• You have a sore throat or a new mouth sore.
• You have redness or swelling anywhere on your body.
• You have pain in your abdomen or rectum.
• You have burning or pain when you urinate.
• You have diarrhea.
• You are more tired or forgetful than usual.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment for neutropenia

will depend on the cause. Your healthcare provider will treat any infections you have. Your provider may also recommend changes to the foods you eat to make sure you get the right nutrition. You may need to stop taking medicines that can cause neutropenia. You may also receive growth factor to help stimulate your bone marrow to make more neutrophils.

Prevent infections:

• Wash your hands often. Wash your hands several times each day. Wash after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, and before you prepare or eat food. Use soap and water every time. Rub your soapy hands together, lacing your fingers. Wash the front and back of your hands, and in between your fingers. Use the fingers of one hand to scrub under the fingernails of the other hand. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Rinse with warm, running water for several seconds. Then dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands first.
• Bathe or shower daily. Keep your skin clean, hydrated, and prevent cracks.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury. Injuries such as cuts, scrapes, or tears may increase your risk for infection. Shave with an electric razor to prevent cuts in your skin. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent injury to your gums. Ask if it is okay to floss daily.
• Do not share personal items. Do not share towels, razors, or toothbrushes with other people.
• Avoid crowds and sick people. Avoid contact with animal saliva, urine, or feces. Have someone clean your cat's litter box or fish tank, or pick up after your dog.
• Prepare meals in a clean kitchen. Wash raw fruits and vegetables to remove dirt. Cook meats and eggs thoroughly.
• Use stool softeners if you are constipated. Do not use suppositories or enemas. Constipation, suppositories, and enemas can cause a tear in your rectum. This allows germs to get in and can increase your risk for infection.
• Ask about vaccines you may need. Vaccines help lower the risk for infections that can become serious. Your healthcare provider can tell you if you should also get vaccines not listed below, and when to get them.
  • Get an influenza (flu) vaccine as directed. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months or older. Get the vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually in September or October.
  • Get a COVID-19 vaccine as directed. At least 1 dose of an updated vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months or older. COVID-19 vaccines are given as a shot in 1 to 3 doses, depending on the age of the person who receives it. COVID-19 vaccines are updated throughout the year. Your healthcare provider can help you schedule all needed doses as updated vaccines become available.
  • Get a pneumonia vaccine as directed. The vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 50 or older. Adults aged 19 to 49 years who are at high risk for pneumonia should also receive the vaccine. You may need 1 dose or 2. The number depends on the vaccine used and your risk factors. Children routinely receive 4 doses of the pneumonia vaccine, starting at 2 months.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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