What is leukopenia?
leukopenia, also known as leukopenia or leukocytopenia, is when blood has an abnormally low amount of white blood cells or leukocytes. It is from Greek words that mean "white" and "shortage". If there is a reduced amount of white blood cells in the blood, there is a higher risk of infection.
When a low amount of platelets is in the blood, thrombocytopenia is called. Thrombocytopenia can be observed in cases of leukopenia and will have to be treated with steroids, vitamins and immunosuppressants. Having leukopenia does not always mean that the patient will also have thrombocytopenia. Other causes of leukopenia are deficiencies of minerals such as copper and zinc, sepsis and aplastic anemia. Drugs that may usually reduce white blood cells are antipsychotic drugs, immunosuppressive drugs, vterferons and some antidepressants.
The symptoms of leukopenia begin to show only after a serious case occurs; Mild cases usually do not have symptoms. They include anemia, pneumonia, liver abscess and mouth inflammation. ExistAlso signs of headaches, fever, desire for hot drinks and irritability. In women, their periods may take longer and be heavier and hot flashes may suffer.
The diagnosis can be made by simple blood collection. This blood test is called complete blood count (CBC) and measure the amount of white blood cells in the blood. This is usually the only way to find out if anyone has an unusually low amount.
treatment of leukopenia begins with vitamins and steroids. It will stimulate the pulp to create more leukocytes. While they suffer from leukopenia and undergo treatment, the patient is exposed to a higher risk of infections, cancer, and aids caused by suppressed immunity.
While the low number of white blood cells is not fatal in itself, it can lead to death if the patient captures an infection that his body cannot fight. A reduced number of white blood cells may open the patient as a host of various parasitic diseases. Body,Although tired and its immune system is at risk, it is in a fragile state.
After normal CBC tests within the annual physical test, it is a good way to monitor any problems with the number of blood cells. This test can help see problems before they get out of control and before other conditions are present. CBC tests should be a standard part of any regular physical control.