Ways To Treat And Prevent Neutropenia

Stem Cell Transplant

A stem cell transplant may be recommended for patients with severe cases of neutropenia. The transplants are particularly helpful for patients with neutropenia caused by problems with bone marrow. Patients who have transplants are required to complete a number of medical tests before the transplant can take place. These tests are done to ensure patients are physically and mentally healthy enough to undergo the procedure. First, doctors will perform a complete health history and a physical examination. Patients will have CT scans, blood tests, electrocardiograms and other heart tests, chest x-rays, pulmonary function tests, a bone marrow biopsy, and HLA tissue typing. Patients will also have psychological evaluations, and they will need to identify a primary caregiver to help them during the transplant and recovery process.

Stem cell transplants are given through intravenous infusion in the hospital, just like a regular IV. Patients are awake for the procedure, and the infusion does not hurt. Potential side effects of transplantation include fever, chills, low blood pressure, reduced urine output, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Following the transplant, patients enter a phase known as engrafting, which lasts between two to six weeks. If the transplant has been successful, the transplanted stem cells multiply and make new blood cells during this period, eventually bringing patient's blood counts back within the normal range. Patients have daily appointments at the hospital or transplant center for monitoring during this time.

Reveal the next option for treating neutropenia.