$Unique_ID{BRK02036}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Neutropenia and the Necessity of Prompt Treatment}
$Subject{neutropenia hematologist hematology leukopenia white blood cells
blood disorders immune system}
$Volume{}
$Log{
Neutrophil and Monocyte (White) Blood Cells*0002104.scf
Lymphocyte (White) Blood Cells*0002105.scf}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Neutropenia and the Necessity of Prompt Treatment


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QUESTION:  Recently our 19 month old boy had a blood test and we were
surprised to find out he has neutropenia.  The pediatrician recommended us to
take him to see a hematologist.  Since we live in a small town it takes a
three hour drive to reach a hematologist, and our son looks normal and active.
Is it O.K. to wait until he gets older?  What's causing the problem?  How many
trips will it take to find out?  What would the treatments be like?  We would
appreciate a prompt reply.

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ANSWER:  The word "neutropenia" (sometimes called "leukopenia") reveals that
the number of white cells in your son's blood is lower than normal.  Obviously
your pediatrician thinks it is serious enough to warrant a specialist's care,
but it is impossible for me to speculate as to the cause.  A low white blood
count will make your son more susceptible to infections, but I can't tell you
how many trips you will need or predict treatments before the diagnosis is
made.  However, I can urge you to make that trip, as difficult as it may be,
as soon as possible.  It is the only way I see for you to get the answers to
all your questions, and certainly is the right way to get the medical care for
your son that he may need.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.