Neutropenia Health Article

Cyclical neutropenia

—A rare genetic blood disorder in which the patient's neutrophil level drops below 500/mm ³ for six to eight days every three weeks.

Cytokine

—A type of protein produced by immune cells that affects the actions of other cells. Differential —A blood cell count in which the percentages of cell types are calculated as well as the total number of cells.

Granulocyte

—Any of several types of white blood cells that have granules in their cell substance. Neutrophils are the most common type of granulocyte.

Neutrophil

—A granular white blood cell that ingests bacteria, dead tissue cells, and foreign matter.

Opportunistic infection

— A type of infection caused by an organism that would not normally cause disease in a healthy person, but can do so when the immune system of the host is weakened.

Sargramostim

—A medication made from yeast that stimulates WBC production. It is sold under the trade names Leukine and Prokine.

Sequestration and margination

—The removal of neutrophils from circulating blood by cell changes that trap them in the lungs and spleen.

Filgrastim

—G-CSF cytokine normally produced in the body at low levels. G-CSF helps the body produce more neutrophils to fight infection.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

• What symptoms lead to this diagnosis?
• What can be expected with this condition and how long it last?
• What is the plan for treatment? Will it be covered by my insurance? Can it be done at home?
• What support and monitoring for home health care might be available? Would supervision be required? Would this be appropriate and what are the risks of complications? What are the costs?
• What are the side effects of treatment? Are there any drugs, foods, etc. that should not be taken during treatment? Should daily activities be modified?
• What complementary and alternative treatment methods have been shown to be helpful in addition to conventional medical treatments? Have any of these treatments been helpful to reduce symptoms and side effects from medication?
• Are complementary treatments easy to access and what is the cost of such treatments? Are these covered by my insurance as well?
• Where can a person get more information about this condition?
• What avenues for emotional and spiritual support might be available to help cope with this diagnosis?