Neutropenia

A health condition characterized by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell important for fighting certain infections, especially those caused by bacteria. Numerous factors may cause the destruction, decreased production or abnormal storage of neutrophils. Chemotherapy is a common cause as it can kill neutrophils and other healthy cells as well as cancer cells, but medication to treat overactive thyroid or irregular heart rhythms may also cause the condition, as well as anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and antipsychotic drugs and some antibiotics.