Leukocytopenia Test

Leukocytopenia, or leukopenia (from the ancient Greek λευκος - white and πενία - poverty; leukemia) - a decrease in the number of leukocytes in human peripheral blood (normally - 4.0-9.0 10⁹ / l). Leukocytes perform many functions in the human body, such as protection against infections, maintaining homeostasis, participating in the immune system, and others. Their numbers can decrease for a variety of reasons, including illness, infection, autoimmune diseases and drug side effects.

Leukocytopenia is diagnosed with a complete blood count (CBC). In this case, not only the number of leukocytes is determined, but also their subtypes, which have different significance for health. Normally, the CBC should contain from 4 to 9 thousand leukocytes per liter of blood.

Depending on the cause of leukocytopenia, it can be temporary or permanent. If leukocytes in the blood are reduced due to infection, then after recovery their number will be restored. If the cause is other factors, then treatment can be aimed at eliminating these causes and increasing the number of leukocytes.

If a blood test reveals a decrease in the number of leukocytes below 1.5 per 10 to the 9th degree/l, this indicates leukopenia.

To treat leukopenia, drugs are used that stimulate the growth and maturation of granulocytes (these include colony-stimulating factors, such as filgrastim or purinepramide), as well as antimicrobial agents to fight infection.

When treating leukocytopenia, it is necessary to take into account possible side effects of drugs, as well as monitor the level of leukocytes during treatment.