Overview
Pediatric white blood cell disorders refer to blood disorders in children that affect the production, function, or count of white blood cells (leukocytes). White blood cells play a crucial role in fighting infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Disorders affecting white blood cells can lead to either a low or high count of these cells in the bloodstream. Low white blood cell count (leukopenia) means that there are too few white blood cells circulating in the blood, which may increase the risk of infections. Causes of low white blood cell count can include diseases, disorders, or infections that damage bone marrow, certain medications, and other conditions. High white blood cell count (leukocytosis) means that there are too many white blood cells circulating in the blood, usually caused by an existing infection. Several diseases and conditions can cause a long-term high white blood cell count, including chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). White blood cell disorders involving specific types of white blood cells include:
- Neutropenia: A low number of neutrophils, which fight bacterial and fungal infections.
- Lymphocytopenia: A decrease in lymphocytes, which protect the body from viral infections.
- Monocyte disorders: Increased or decreased numbers of monocytes, which help remove dead or damaged tissue and regulate immune responses.
- Eosinophilia: A higher than normal number of eosinophil cells, which fight parasitic infections and allergic reactions.
- Basophilic disorders: Increased or decreased numbers of basophils, which play a role in wound healing, infection, and allergic reactions. Pediatric white blood cell disorders can be congenital or acquired, and some may be inherited. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of pediatric white blood cell disorders can vary depending on the specific disorder and the type of white blood cell affected. Some common symptoms include:
- Low white blood cell count (leukopenia): This can increase the risk of infections and may cause symptoms such as frequent infections, fever, and fatigue.
- High white blood cell count (leukocytosis): This is usually a result of an infection and may not necessarily cause symptoms. However, a persistent high white blood cell count can sometimes be a sign of an underlying disease or condition.
- Neutropenia: A decrease in neutrophils, which can lead to an increased susceptibility to infections, causing symptoms like fever, chills, and frequent infections.
- Lymphocytopenia: A decrease in lymphocytes, which can lead to an increased risk of viral infections, causing symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and fever.
- Anemia, thrombocytopenia, or other blood disorders: Some white blood cell disorders may result in complications like anemia, a decrease in red blood cells and hemoglobin, or thrombocytopenia, a low count of platelets involved in clotting. These can cause symptoms such as easy bruising, bleeding, and fatigue. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you or your child experiences symptoms that are concerning or if there is bleeding that does not stop.
Development
Pediatric white blood cell disorders, such as neutropenia, lymphocytopenia, and eosinophilia, can develop due to a variety of factors. Neutropenia, for example, can be caused by cancer or damage to bone marrow, certain medications, or other diseases or conditions. Lymphocytopenia may result from an inherited syndrome, certain diseases, or side effects from medications or treatments. Eosinophilia is often caused by allergic reactions or parasitic infections. In the case of chronic myelogenous leukemia, the disorder develops when the tyrosine kinase allows too many white blood cells to grow in the bone marrow, leading to a build-up of diseased white blood cells that crowd out healthy cells and damage the bone marrow.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if pediatric white blood cell disorders are suspected when there are symptoms that cause concern or if there is a significant abnormality in the white blood cell count. This applies to both low (leukopenia) and high (leukocytosis) white blood cell counts. Symptoms may include easy bruising, petechiae or purpura, bleeding from the gums or nose, blood in urine or stools, and heavy menstrual flow. It's important to seek help right away if bleeding cannot be controlled with regular first aid efforts. Remember, this answer is intended for general guidance and does not replace professional medical advice.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of pediatric white blood cell disorders can include:
- Infections: Low white blood cell count (leukopenia) increases the risk of infections, while high white blood cell count (leukocytosis) is usually a response to an existing infection.
- Anemia: White blood cell disorders can also affect the production of red blood cells, leading to anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and paleness.
- Neutropenia: A decrease in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that fights infections, can increase the risk of infections and sepsis.
- Lymphocytopenia: A decrease in lymphocytes, which help protect the body from viral infections, can increase susceptibility to infections and certain viral illnesses.
- Thrombocytopenia: A decrease in platelets, which are involved in blood clotting, can result in increased risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Other complications: These can include heart problems, complications involving the nervous system, swollen tonsils, and difficulties in absorbing vitamin B-12, which can lead to vitamin deficiency anemia. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and management of pediatric white blood cell disorders.