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Neutropenia

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 09, 2012

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

Neutropenia is a decrease in one type of white blood cells (WBCs) called neutrophils. In lung cancer, neutropenia usually occurs as a side effect of chemotherapy.

Neutrophils are the bodies first line of defense against bacterial infections, and their absence makes one more susceptible to developing a bacterial infection.

Further Reading:

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