What is the meaning of low neutrophils?

Hai,

Thanks for writing in. Your query is short of information to provide a tangible and personalized information. Let me explain:

1. Low Neutrophils - also called as neutropenia - means decreased blood counts of neutrophilic cells in blood.
2. Neutrophils are the first blood cells which act against infections. Decreased neutrophil count decreases your immunity level.
3. Neutropenia can be due to viral infections, bone marrow suppression, blood cancers, few hereditary disorders, after radiotherapy.
4. Medications like cancer drugs, few antibiotics, psychiatric drugs can cause neutropenia.
5. Deficiency of Vit.B12, folate & copper can also cause decreased production of neutrophils.

A routine blood count - total / differential along with peripheral smear study can help in diagnosing neutropenia. Bone marrow biopsy might be needed in cases where cause has not been identified.

Hope i have clarified your query. Feel free to ask if you have any doubts.

Dr.Sathyadharan