Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects the production of white blood cells. Neutropenia is a common symptom of AML, which is a decrease in the number of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell. Neutropenia can be caused by a variety of factors, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy used to treat cancer, or it can be a symptom of AML itself.
Causes of Neutropenia in AML
Neutropenia in AML is caused by several factors, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy used to treat the cancer, as well as the cancer itself. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can both damage the bone marrow, which is responsible for producing white blood cells. The cancer can also directly damage the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in the production of white blood cells, including neutrophils.
Treatment of Neutropenia in AML
The treatment for neutropenia in AML depends on the underlying cause. If it is caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy, then the treatment may involve adjusting the dose or frequency of these treatments. If it is caused by the cancer itself, then treatment may involve the use of medications to stimulate the production of white blood cells, or to boost the immune system. Additionally, patients may be given antibiotics to prevent infections caused by the low levels of neutrophils.
