Agranulocytosis

 

Agranulocytosis

It is a condition characterised by a severe reduction in or loss of neutrophils in the blood.

Aetiology

1.Exposure to drugs.

           .Sulphonamides.

           .Antithyroid drugs.

            .Chloramphenicol.

            .Gold salts.

2.Radiotherapy.

3.Infections.

              .Septicemia.

              .Osteomyelitis.

              .Pneumonia.

              .Liver abscess.

4.Aplastic anaemia.

5.Hodgkin’s disease.

 

Clinical features

1.Sore throat.

2.Severe pain in throat.

3.Severe dysphagia.

4.White spots of exudate on the throat.

5.Ulcers on the oral mucosa,gums,and lips.

6.Fever with chills.

7.Headache .

8.Bodyache.

9.Excessive   sweating.

10.Tachycardia.

11.Nausea,vomiting.

12.Weakness.

13.Toxic state.

14.Coma.

Treatment

1.Treatment of the cause.

2.Penicillin 1000000 units IV6 hourly after a test dose.

3.Prednisolone 40 mg/day orally.

4.Oral hygiene.

5.IV fluids

6.Blood transfusion as required.

7.Complete bed rest.

8.Isolation and barrier nursing.