Agranulocytosis disease
Agranulocytosis is a condition in which the bone marrow does not produce certain types of white blood cells, often neutrophils, in adequate quantities. A neutrophil is a type of white blood cell needed by the body to fight off infections and is the largest proportion of white blood cells in the body.
A neutrophil is an important part of the body's endurance system. Generally, the cell is the first body endurance to arrive at the location of the infection. The cells also fight and damage things that can harm the body, such as bacteria.
In Agranulocytosis, a low amount of neutrophils may mean that a minor infection may develop into a serious infection. Microbes or germs that are usually harmless can suddenly avoid the body's protection system to attack the body.
Agranulocytosis is classified as a rare condition.
Causes of Agranulocytosis
There are two types of agranulocytosis. The first type is congenital, meaning that this condition has already occurred at birth. The second type is acquired, which means agranulocytosis may occur as a result of the consumption of certain medications or undergo certain procedures.
In both agranulocytosis, there are very low neutrophil levels. In normal adults, neutrophils generally range from 1,500 to 8.00 per microliters (MCL) of blood. In agranulocytosis, there are generally less than 500 neutrophils per mcL.
At agranulocytosis, some things can cause bone marrow to suffer from the failure of neutrophil production or producing neutrophils that do not develop into the mature and function properly. One theory also suspects there is something that causes neutrophils to experience an earlier death.
In congenital agranulocytosis, there is a genetic abnormality that causes it.
Agranulocytosis obtained can be caused by:
- Consumption of certain medications
- Exposure to chemical substances, such as the insecticide DDT
- Diseases that affect the bone marrow, such as cancer
- Serious infections
- Exposure to radiation
- Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus
One study also found that some cases of agranulocytosis may also be associated with the consumption of certain medications. Examples of anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, and antimalarial drugs are certain types.
Symptoms of Agranulocytosis
Agranulocytosis can sometimes show no signs and symptoms when there is no infection. Early signs and symptoms of agranulocytosis may include:
- Sudden fever
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Weakness in the extremities
- Pain in the oral cavity and gums
- Sprue
- Bleeding Gums
Signs and other symptoms of agranulocytosis may include:
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid respiratory Frequency
- Decreased blood pressure
- Abscess on Skin
Diagnosis of Agranulocytosis
Diagnosis of Agranulocytosis can be determined based on detailed medical interviews, direct physical examinations, and specific supporting examinations when assessed is needed.
In medical interviews, doctors can inquire about the presence of certain health conditions or the consumption of certain medications. Blood and urine tests are needed to evaluate the infection and examine the type of white blood cell.
The doctor may also recommend taking bone marrow sampling when there is suspected disturbance to the bone marrow. A genetic examination can be performed to evaluate the possible hereditary agranulocytosis. Also, people experiencing this condition can undergo further examination to determine the likelihood of autoimmune diseases.
Agranulocytosis Treatment
When agranulocytosis occurs due to the underlying disease, the condition must be taken in advance. When it is needed treatment for other conditions that cause agranulocytosis, the doctor may prescribe another treatment as a substitution.
In people who consume several types of medication, it is possible to stop consuming the medicines to help determine which treatment is causing the problem. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics or antifungal treatment when an infection is present.
One type of treatment called a colony-stimulating factor can be used in some people, such as individuals who experience agranulocytosis as a result of chemotherapy. This treatment supports the bone marrow to produce more amount of neutrophils and can be used in conjunction with a chemotherapy cycle.
Prevention of Agranulocytosis
One way to prevent agranulocytosis is to avoid the consumption of treatment that can cause it.
If one has to take long-term treatment that can trigger the condition, blood screening can be done periodically to check neutrophil levels. The doctor may also advise stopping the intake of treatment when there is a decrease in neutrophil count in the blood.