WHAT IS NEUTROPENIA?

Neutropenia (noo-truh-PEE-nee-uh) means there aren't enough neutrophils in your blood. Neutrophils are white blood cells. They help your body fight germs and infections. Most people with neutropenia do not know they have it. Some get sick more often or have sores in their mouths.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

Sometimes neutropenia is caused by a condition you are born with. Many of these conditions are found in childhood. However, some are very mild and are not found until you are an adult. You might have a family member with a similar condition.

Medications, getting an infection, not having enough vitamins, medical conditions, cancer, and cancer treatment can cause neutropenia. Your doctor will order tests and might refer you to a specialist to determine the cause.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

It depends on the cause and if the condition is causing other problems. Neutropenia usually gets better after the cause is treated. This can include treating an infection, stopping medicines, taking vitamins, or treating other medical problems. Some neutropenias do not need to be treated, and mild neutropenia is normal in some people.

IS IT SERIOUS?

Neutropenia can cause life-threatening infections. If you have neutropenia and are having fever, chills, or trouble breathing or are feeling unwell, then you should seek medical care as soon as possible. People with neutropenia and infections might need to stay in the hospital for testing and to get antibiotics.

You can decrease your risk of infections by washing your hands and staying away from large crowds and people who are sick. The CDC has made a guide for people with neutropenia to lower their risk of infections.

December 2025