Leukopenia

Leukopenia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of leukocytes (white blood cells) in the blood compared to normal levels.

White blood cells play an important role in the immune system, protecting the body from infections and inflammation. With leukopenia, this immunity weakens, which makes a person more susceptible to various diseases.

The causes of leukopenia can be different:

1. Taking certain medications, including chemotherapy, that suppress the function of the bone marrow, where white blood cells are made.

2. Infectious diseases such as influenza, measles, rubella, etc.

3. Autoimmune diseases.

4. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 and folic acid.

5. Genetic disorders.

6. Radiation therapy.

Leukopenia can occur in varying degrees of severity. With neutropenia and agranulocytosis (types of leukopenia), the level of neutrophils, the most important immune cells, decreases. These conditions are especially dangerous due to the high risk of infections.

Diagnosis of leukopenia includes a general and biochemical blood test. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the cause of the decrease in white blood cells. Severe leukopenia may require a transfusion of leukocytes.

Leukopenia: understanding, causes and treatment

Leukopenia, also known as decreased white blood cell count, is a condition in which the number of white blood cells in the body decreases below normal levels. Leukocytes, white blood cells, play an important role in the body's immune system, fighting infections and protecting us from disease. Therefore, leukopenia can have serious health consequences.

Leukopenia can be classified depending on the type of white blood cells that are most affected. Here are some of them:

1. Eosinopenia: characterized by a decrease in the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell responsible for fighting allergic reactions and parasitic infections.

2. Lymphopenia: Associated with a decrease in the number of lymphocytes, key immune system cells responsible for detecting and fighting infections and creating immune memory.

3. Neutropenia: Characterized by low levels of neutrophils, the most common type of white blood cell that plays an important role in fighting bacterial infections.

Now let's look at some of the causes of leukopenia:

1. Medicines: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, antivirals, and anti-inflammatory drugs, can affect the production of white blood cells and cause them to decrease.

2. Viral infections: Some viruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis viruses, and cytomegalovirus, can suppress bone marrow function, resulting in decreased production of white blood cells.

3. Autoimmune diseases: Some autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause leukopenia by the immune system attacking its own white blood cells.

4. Chronic diseases: Cancer, sepsis, leukemia and other chronic diseases can negatively affect the production and release of white blood cells.

Treatment for leukopenia depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, if leukopenia is caused by medications, changing the dosage or changing the drug may help restore the white blood cell count. For viral infections, specific treatment of the underlying disease or antiviral drugs may be required. In the case of autoimmune diseases, immunomodulatory drugs may be used to reduce the activity of the immune system. In some cases, white blood cell transfusion may be required to maintain normal levels.

It is important to note that leukopenia is a condition that requires medical monitoring and diagnosis. If you suspect that you have leukopenia, it is important to consult a doctor to conduct appropriate tests to determine the cause of the decrease in white blood cell levels.

Preventing leukopenia can be challenging as it is usually a symptom of an underlying medical condition. However, taking certain precautions can help reduce the risk of developing leukopenia. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical activity and avoidance of bad habits. It is also recommended to maintain hygiene and avoid contact with infectious agents.

In conclusion, leukopenia is a serious condition that requires attention and medical intervention. If you experience symptoms related to the immune system or changes in blood composition, it is important to consult a doctor to diagnose and determine the cause of leukopenia. Early detection and treatment of the underlying condition can help restore normal white blood cell counts and keep the body healthy.

Leucopenia, a decrease in leukocytes in the peripheral blood, that is, a decrease in the number of all types of leukocytes, including lymphocytes, granulocytes and monocytes. If the leukocyte count is significantly lower than normal, leukopenia is called severe (pronounced, severe, acute).\nLeukopenia can be congenital or acquired. Etiology of hematological syndromes:\n1. Bone marrow neoplasms or extramedullary tumors:\n• Multiple myeloma\