Diagnosis and Treatment of Leucopenia

Treatment of leucopenia involves taking vitamins, steroids or other medicines along with a balanced diet and adequate rest.

A complete blood count (CBC) is usually sufficient to confirm leucopenia.

The treatment of leucopenia involves-

• Prescribing steroids and vitamin supplements to activate the bone marrow in order to produce more white blood cells. Medications containing 'growth factors' and cytokines help in increasing WBC production. The most common drugs prescribed for treating low white blood cell count are filgrastim and pegfilgrastim.
• Prolonged leucopenia may cause disseminated fungal infections. This needs anti fungal chemotherapy.
• The patient should remain active.
• People with leucopenia should follow a balanced diet. Extra fruits and adequate fluid intake is advised to avoid constipation.
• It is very important to avoid injury. Slight cuts or scrapes can cause infections. Mouth should be kept clean and rinsed with warm salt water. Soft brushing is advised. The patient must stay away from people with infections and avoid crowds. Keep away from children or people who have been recently vaccinated.