[Fast identification of febrile neutropenia improves the outcome]

The purpose of this article is to describe the management of febrile neutropenia in the medical emergency room. Symptoms and signs of inflammation in patients receiving chemotherapy may be blunted or absent and fever may be the only sign of severe infection. Early initiation of empirical antibiotics is essential for the outcome. A beta-lactam antibiotic is the treatment of choice and the regimen should be re-evaluated frequently in absence of clinical improvement. The treating oncologist should always be involved for advice and for assuring adjustments in future chemotherapy.