Overview
A low white blood cell count, also known as leukopenia, occurs when the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood falls below the normal range. White blood cells are crucial components of the immune system, helping the body fight infections.
➤ Leukopenia increases the risk of infections and can be a sign of underlying medical conditions.
➤ The condition may be temporary or chronic, depending on the cause.
➤ In Korea, hospitals and clinics provide diagnostic testing, monitoring, and treatment to manage low WBC counts and reduce complications.
Key Facts
► Definition: A reduction in the number of circulating white blood cells below the normal range (typically <4,000 cells/µL).
► Prevalence: Can occur in all age groups; more common in people undergoing chemotherapy, viral infections, or with autoimmune disorders.
► Symptoms: Frequent infections, fever, fatigue, mouth sores, and slow healing.
► Risk factors: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, autoimmune diseases, viral infections, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medications.
► Treatment in Korea: Includes treating the underlying cause, medications to stimulate WBC production, infection prevention, and monitoring.
What Is Low White Blood Cell Count?
Leukopenia is a condition where the immune system’s first line of defense is weakened due to insufficient white blood cells.
➔ White blood cells include neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, each with specific roles in fighting infections.
➔ A low WBC count can be asymptomatic initially or present with mild signs like fatigue or minor infections.
➔ Severe leukopenia significantly increases the risk of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, making early detection essential.
What Symptoms Are Related to Low White Blood Cell Count?
Symptoms vary depending on severity and underlying causes:
→ Frequent or severe infections, including respiratory, urinary, and skin infections.
→ Fever, chills, and sweating, often signaling infection.
→ Mouth ulcers or sores due to reduced immunity.
→ Sore throat or sinus infections.
→ Fatigue or malaise.
→ Slow wound healing or recurrent infections.
→ Unexplained bruising or bleeding in some cases.
Causes / Possible Causes of Low White Blood Cell Count
Bone Marrow Disorders
➤ Aplastic anemia – Bone marrow fails to produce enough WBCs.
➤ Leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes – Cancerous or abnormal marrow cells reduce normal WBC production.
➤ Bone marrow suppression – Caused by radiation or chemotherapy.
Infections and Immune System Disorders
➔ Viral infections – HIV, hepatitis, or influenza can temporarily lower WBC counts.
➔ Autoimmune diseases – Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis can destroy WBCs.
➔ Severe bacterial infections – May temporarily deplete neutrophils.
Medications and Toxins
→ Chemotherapy drugs, immunosuppressants, and certain antibiotics may reduce WBC production.
→ Exposure to toxic chemicals or radiation.
Nutritional Deficiencies
➤ Deficiency in vitamins B12, folate, or copper can impair WBC production.
Other Contributing Factors
➔ Chronic illnesses such as liver or kidney disease.
➔ Genetic conditions affecting bone marrow or immune system function.
When Should I See My Doctor?
Immediate medical evaluation is required if:
➤ You experience frequent or severe infections.
➤ Fever, chills, or sore throat occurs unexpectedly.
➤ You are on chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy.
➤ There is unexplained fatigue, mouth sores, or slow wound healing.
➤ Early intervention can prevent life-threatening infections and complications.
Care and Treatment
Lifestyle and Self-Care Measures
► Maintain good hygiene to reduce infection risk.
► Avoid crowded or high-risk environments when WBC counts are low.
► Ensure balanced nutrition rich in vitamins B12, folate, and minerals.
► Monitor body temperature and signs of infection daily.
► Vaccination may be recommended for preventable infections, under medical guidance.
Medical Treatments
➔ Treat underlying causes – autoimmune disorders, infections, or bone marrow problems.
➔ Medications to stimulate WBC production – Filgrastim or pegfilgrastim for neutropenia.
➔ Antibiotics or antivirals – Early treatment of infections to prevent complications.
➔ Adjust or stop medications causing leukopenia under supervision.
Procedural and Advanced Interventions
→ Bone marrow transplant – For severe cases of marrow failure or leukemia.
→ Hospitalization – For severe neutropenia with infection risk.
→ Regular blood monitoring – To track WBC recovery and response to treatment.
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis and Assessment
➤ Complete blood count (CBC) with differential to measure WBC subtypes.
➤ Bone marrow biopsy or aspiration if bone marrow disorder is suspected.
➤ Blood tests for vitamin deficiencies, infections, and autoimmune markers.
Non-Surgical Care
► Treat infections promptly with antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals.
► Nutritional support and vitamin supplementation if deficiencies are present.
► Medication adjustments for those on immunosuppressive or myelosuppressive drugs.
Advanced Care
➔ Use of growth factors (G-CSF, GM-CSF) to stimulate WBC production.
➔ Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation in severe or refractory cases.
➔ Multidisciplinary care involving hematology, infectious disease, and nutrition specialists.
Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Support
→ Education on infection prevention, self-monitoring, and warning signs.
→ Support for patients with chronic illnesses or post-transplant care.
→ Regular follow-up to ensure WBC recovery and maintain immune function.
