[Leukopenia - A Diagnostic Guideline for the Clinical Routine]

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Internal Medicine
• Clinical Pathology

Background:

• Leukopenia, a decrease in white blood cells, has diverse causes.
• Assessing previous blood counts and other cell lines (red blood cells, platelets) aids in determining the origin of leukopenia, such as bone marrow production issues.
• A manual peripheral blood smear is critical for detailed analysis of leukocyte subgroups and identifying potential causes like dysplasia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline diagnostic approaches for leukopenia.
• To emphasize the importance of peripheral blood smear analysis in diagnosing leukopenia.
• To highlight the emergent nature of leukopenia with agranulocytosis and fever.

Main Methods:

• Review of patient's previous blood counts.
• Analysis of red blood cell and platelet counts.
• Manual peripheral blood smear examination.
• Assessment for signs of dysplasia.
• Monitoring for fever in patients with leukopenia.

Main Results:

• Bi- or pancytopenia suggests impaired bone marrow production.
• Peripheral blood smear provides crucial details on leukocyte subgroups and dysplasia.
• Leukopenia, particularly agranulocytosis accompanied by fever, indicates a life-threatening condition.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive diagnostic approach including historical blood counts and peripheral smear analysis is essential for leukopenia.
• Prompt medical intervention with broad-spectrum antibiotics is mandatory for patients presenting with agranulocytosis and fever to prevent mortality.