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Neutropenia - infants

Definition:

Neutropenia is an abnormally low number of neutrophils in the blood. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell (leukocyte) that help the body fight infection. A low number of neutrophils create a high risk for infection.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In babies, the most common cause of neutropenia is infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Low levels of neutrophils occur when the bone marrow can not replace them as fast as they are being used.

Occasionally, a non-sick infant will have a low neutrophil count for no apparent reason.

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