| Neutrophils (aka polymorphonuclear
cells, PMN's, granulocytes, segmented neutrophils, or segs)
fight against infection and represent a subset of the white blood
count. Neutropenia by definition is an ANC below 1800/mm3 (some
sources use a lower value).
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 1000-1800:
Most patients will be given chemotherapy in this range. Risk of
infection is considered low. (Mild neutropenia)
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of
500-1000: Carries with it a moderate risk of infection.
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of less than
500: Severe neutropenia - high risk of infection.
Remember that a reduced WBC is known as
leukopenia.
The WBC consists of the following
(differential):
Lymphocytes: 20-40%
Neutrophils: 50-60%
Basophils: 0.5-2%
Eosinophils: 1-4%
Monocytes: 2-9% (average: 4%).
ANC = Total WBC x (% "Segs" + % "Bands")
Equivalent to: WBC x ((Segs/100) + (Bands/100))
The ANC refers to the total number of neutrophil granulocytes present in the blood.
Normal value: ≥ 1500 cells/mm3.
Mild neutropenia: ≥1000 - <1500/mm3.
Moderate neutropenia: ≥500 - <1000/mm3.
Severe neutropenia: < 500/mm3.
Reference:
Ayalew Tefferi, MD, ed. Primary Hematology. Totowa, NJ: Humana Press, 2001. |