Definition

Relating to a condition where a person has a lower than normal number of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell important for fighting infections.

Example

Patients who are neutropenic are at a higher risk of developing infections.

Conversation

I read about a patient who was neutropenic after their treatment.

Oh really? That sounds serious. What does that mean?

It means their immune system is weakened, making them more susceptible to infections.

Yikes, I hope they get better soon!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Neutropenic → It is formed from "neutro-" (from Greek "neutros", meaning neither) and "penic" (from Greek "penia", meaning deficiency). The word "neutropenic" refers to a condition characterized by a deficiency of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections.

Memory Tip

Think of 'neutro-' meaning 'neither' and 'penic' meaning 'deficiency' — this helps you remember that 'neutropenic' describes a state of having a deficiency of certain white blood cells.

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