Neutropenia is the term used when you have a lower number of neutrophils than normal in the blood stream. There are many causes of neutropenia with the most common cause being a recent infection (lasting up to 6 weeks).
Autoimmune neutropenia (AIN) is the most common type of prolonged neutropenia in childhood. In AIN the bone marrow is working normally to make normal neutrophils, but the body’s immune system confuses normal neutrophils for an infection and produces a specialised protein called an antibody. The antibody attaches to the neutrophils and destroys them making it hard for the body to fight infection.
AIN of early childhood presents under 4 years of age and in most cases persists for a few years and then resolves spontaneously.
Diagnosis
There is no specific test for autoimmune neutropenia. Your doctor will assess your medical history and do a blood test called a full blood count (FBC) to assess for neutropenia and will advise if further tests are required.
Treatment
Most of the time, no specific treatment is necessary. Even though the child has low numbers of neutrophils in the blood, their bone marrow can produce more neutrophils to respond to infection. If your child develops a bacterial infection, they may require antibiotics to help fight it.
It is recommended that children with autoimmune neutropenia receive all routine immunisations as per the Australian National Immunisation Schedule, including live vaccines.
When to seek help
If your child develops a fever greater than 38oc (degrees Celsius) they should be assessed by a doctor. If your child looks unwell you should present to the emergency department at your local hospital, or your GP if your child is well and an appointment is available the same day.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.
If you're not sure whether to go to an emergency department, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and speak to a registered nurse.
Developed by the Haematology and Haemophilia Department, Queensland Children's Hospital. We acknowledge the input of consumers and carers.
Resource ID: FS262. Reviewed: January 2024.
Disclaimer: This information has been produced by healthcare professionals as a guideline only and is intended to support, not replace, discussion with your child’s doctor or healthcare professionals. Information is updated regularly, so please check you are referring to the most recent version. Seek medical advice, as appropriate, for concerns regarding your child’s health.